What is the difference between flu and the common cold?
Short answer
Flu starts suddenly and brings high fever, severe fatigue and body aches. A cold is milder, with a runny nose, sneezing and sore throat. Both are viral, but they are caused by different viruses.
Checklist
- Did fever and body aches start suddenly?This fits flu better.
- Are runny nose and sneezing dominant?This suggests a common cold.
- Are you in a risk group?If you are pregnant, older, have a chronic illness or are a young child, seek care early.
- Any alarm signs?Call 112 for symptoms such as shortness of breath.
Flu (influenza) and the common cold are viral infections of the upper respiratory tract. Their symptoms are similar, so they are often confused. However, flu is usually more severe and carries a higher risk of complications.
Causes
Flu is caused by influenza viruses. The common cold can be caused by many different viruses, mainly rhinoviruses. This is why you can catch a cold several times a year.
Differences in symptoms
- Onset: Flu begins abruptly within hours; a cold usually develops gradually over a few days.
- Fever: Flu often comes with high fever and chills; a cold brings little or no fever.
- Fatigue and aches: Flu causes marked fatigue, headache and muscle pain; with a cold these are mild.
- Nose and throat: Runny or stuffy nose, sneezing and sore throat are more prominent in a cold.
- Cough: A dry, bothersome cough is common in flu; in a cold the cough is usually milder.
Course and complications
A cold usually clears up in about a week. Flu can last from a few days to two weeks, and fatigue may linger. Flu can lead to complications such as pneumonia. The risk is higher in young children, pregnant women, older adults and people with chronic conditions.
Prevention and home care
- Hand hygieneWash your hands often with soap and water.
- Distance and masksStay away from crowds when ill; cover your mouth with a tissue or your elbow when coughing.
- VaccineA seasonal flu vaccine exists; ask your doctor or check current health authority recommendations on who should be vaccinated. There is no vaccine against the common cold.
- Rest and fluidsRest and drink plenty of fluids.
Frequently asked questions
Do antibiotics work for flu or colds?
No. Antibiotics act on bacteria, not viruses. If a bacterial complication develops, a doctor will assess it.
Does the flu vaccine completely prevent flu?
Not always, but it aims to reduce the chance of getting flu and the risk of severe illness.
When should I see a doctor?
If symptoms do not improve within a few days, get worse, or you are in a risk group, contact a healthcare provider.
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