- Is It A Cold or The Flu?
A cold and the flu (influenza) are two different illnesses. A cold is relatively harmless and usually clears up by itself after a period of time, although sometimes it may lead to a secondary infection, such as an ear infection. However, the flu can lead to complications, such as pneumonia and, in extreme cases, even death.
What may seem like a cold could, in fact, be the flu. Be aware of these differences:
Cold symptoms
Low or no fever
Sometimes a headache
Stuffy, runny nose
Sneezing
Mild, hacking cough
Slight aches and pains
Mild fatigue
Sore throat
Normal energy level or may feel sluggish
Flu symptoms
High fever
A headache (very common)
Clear nose
Sometimes sneezing
Cough, often becoming severe
Often severe aches and pains
Several weeks of fatigue
Sometimes a sore throat
Extreme exhaustion
The best ways to avoid catching a cold or the flu:
• Wash hands frequently.
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
• When around people who aren't feeling well, avoid touching your nose and/or eyes.
• Frequently clean surfaces such as phones, computer keyboards and cell phones.