The Differences between a Cold and the Flu

It is important to understand the differences between the flu and a cold.  Both the flu and a cold are viral infections and can cause symptoms such as coughing and sore throat.  A cold is a minor viral infection of the nose and throat.  The flu however is usually more severe, with higher fevers and the addition of aches and pains.

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Signs & Symptoms	Flu	Cold
Onset	Sudden	Gradual
Fever	Characteristic, high (over 101F); lasting 3 to 4 days	Rare
Cough	Dry; can become severe	Hacking
Headache	Prominent	Rare
Myalgia (muscle aches and pains)	Usual; often severe	Slight
Tiredness and weakness	Can last 2 to 3 weeks	Very mild
Extreme exhaustion	Early and prominent	Never
Chest Discomfort	Common	Mild to moderate
Stuffy Nose	Sometimes	Common
Sneezing	Sometimes	Usual
Sore Throat	Sometimes	Common