The common cold and flu (influenza) are both respiratory illnesses caused by viruses, but they differ in severity, symptoms, and treatment approaches.
Cold:
The common cold is typically caused by rhinoviruses. Symptoms include a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat, mild cough, and occasional fatigue. Fever is rare in colds, especially in adults. Colds are generally mild and resolve within 7–10 days with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies to manage symptoms.
Flu:
The flu is caused by influenza viruses and tends to be more severe than the common cold. Symptoms appear suddenly and include high fever, chills, body aches, fatigue, sore throat, cough, and occasionally gastrointestinal issues like nausea or diarrhea. The flu can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia, especially in children, elderly individuals, or those with compromised immune systems.
Key Differences:
While both illnesses affect the respiratory tract, the flu is more intense and comes with a higher risk of complications.
Prevention:
Preventive measures for both include frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and maintaining a strong immune system. Annual flu vaccination is particularly effective in reducing flu risk and severity.