Flu Vs. Cold

You wake up with a pounding head, a runny nose and fatigue. You're pretty sure it's just a head cold, but you didn't have a flu shot this year, so you're worried it's the flu. What's the difference between these two common conditions?

Signs and Symptoms

The CDC reports that from 2019 to 2020, 35 million people were sick, 380,000 were hospitalized and 20,000 died from the flu. Telltale signs of the flu include:

• A severe fever. You may have a low-grade fever below 100 degrees Fahrenheit when you have a cold. If you have a fever above 101 degrees Fahrenheit, it's probably the flu.
• Achy-breaky body. While the cold and the flu both leave you tired, the flu results in intense exhaustion and body aches.
• No runny nose. A mild cough is common in both illnesses, but the flu rarely results in a runny nose.
• Symptoms that come on fast. While a cold and the flu have similar symptoms, flu symptoms are often more severe. The flu also has a quick onset, while colds are more likely to develop over time. If symptoms appear almost overnight and last for as long as a week without getting any better, it's probably the flu.

If you suspect that you or a family member has the flu, go to a doctor right away. Unlike colds, the flu can lead to multiple serious complications, including pneumonia, encephalitis and seizures. Pregnant people are especially susceptible to adverse side effects of the flu. Not only can it potentially be deadly for the parent, but it can also cause premature birth and other issues for the baby.

Your doctor will perform a flu test to determine whether it's truly the flu, and they may prescribe antiviral drugs to get you back on your feet faster. They might also offer advice on how to treat the symptoms.

Prevention

The best way to avoid the body aches, chills and exhaustion caused by the flu is prevention. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says these measures can stop flu before it starts:

• Get vaccinated. Everyone age six months and older should be vaccinated against the flu. As an alternative to the traditional injection, a nasal spray vaccine is available for those aged 2 to 49.
• Wash, avoid, repeat. Washing your hands is one of the best ways to prevent the spread of illness. Avoid unnecessary contact with sick people, and cover your mouth and nose with a tissue whenever you cough or sneeze.
• Take antivirals (if needed). If you have a preexisting condition that puts you at high risk of complications, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medication. Antiviral drug therapy can mean the difference between a mild illness and a hospital stay for some people.

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