UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COLD VS. FLU
Tips to help you know if it’s a cold or the flu The common cold and the flu are both upper respiratory infections. However, they are caused by different viruses and the symptoms may be more severe with the flu virus versus a cold. Keep in mind that symptoms alone may not be enough to tell the difference between the two. A common cold can be caused by more than 200 viruses (rhinovirus is the most common). The seasonal flu is caused by the influenza A or B virus. This is why there is a vaccine available for the flu and not for colds. Did you know? • Common colds are the leading cause for children missing school and adults missing work. • During an average flu season 20% of the population will get the flu. • The flu can be spread to others from 6 feet away. • The best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated annually. Facts about the common cold • Colds are usually milder than the flu. • People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. • Symptoms usually include sneezing, nasal congestion, sore throat, cough, watery eyes, headache and fatigue. • Symptoms usually last for 7 to 10 days and may last up to 2 weeks. • Colds usually do not result in serious health problems such as pneumonia, infections, or hospitalizations. Facts about the flu • The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. • The flu tends to occur in the colder months of the year. • Symptoms of the flu are worse than the common cold and may include fever, chills, sore throat, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue, vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children). • Fever, body aches, extreme tiredness, and dry cough are more common with the flu and more intense than when associated with a cold. • The best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated annually. How to treat a common cold There is no cure for the common cold. To help you feel better treat your symptoms while your
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