Cold vs. Flu: Facts and Details
Symptoms:
Cold:
- Low-grade or no fever
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
- Stuffy, runny nose
- Cough
Flu:
- High fever, 101 degrees or above or feeling feverish/chills
- Severe headache and body aches
- Extreme tiredness that can last up to three weeks
- Chest discomfort
- Respiratory symptoms such as cough and sore throat
How long symptoms last:
Cold:
- Two days to up to one week
Flu:
- A few days to up to two weeks
Complications:
Cold:
- Sinus Congestion
- Ear Infection
- Asthma
Flu:
- Bronchitis
- Pneumonia
- Bacterial infections
Treatment:
Cold:
- There is no specific treatment for the common cold.
- Over-the-counter medication, such as ibuprofen, can help with symptoms.
Flu:
- Prescription antiviral medications can shorten how long flu symptoms last and may reduce the risk of complications.
- Over-the-counter medication, such as ibuprofen, can help with symptoms.
Prevention:
Cold:
- No vaccine available
- Wash hands often.
- Avoid close contact with anyone ill.
- Stay home when you are ill.
Flu:
- Annual vaccination (flu shot)
- Wash hands often.
- Avoid close contact with anyone ill.
- Stay home when you are ill.
For more information contact the Sedgwick County Health Department Epidemiology Program at 316-660-7300.