Is it a cold or the flu?

A fever, chills, cough, and runny nose. Could it be the flu or is it just a cold?

Because the flu and the common cold share many symptoms, it can be difficult to tell the difference between them. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), tests performed within the first few days of illness can determine whether a person has the flu.

Influenza (the flu) and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses but are caused by different viruses. In general, the flu is worse than a cold with more intense symptoms.

The Flu

This contagious illness is caused by the influenza virus. Symptoms can be mild to severe and can even be fatal. The flu usually comes on suddenly and often involves some or all of the following symptoms:

• Fever (100 to 103 degrees Fahrenheit in adults; often higher in children)
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Vomiting & diarrhea

Vaccination is the best way to protect against the flu, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health. The vaccine can also make the illness milder for people who do get sick. Health departments in Illinois and Indiana recommend an annual flu vaccine for people age six months and older.

Common Cold

Colds are usually milder than the flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose and sore throat. A fever and headache are rare. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations. However, complications can arise from a cold, such as sinus congestion or an earache.

Other than antiviral medications for the flu, cold and flu symptoms are treated similarly. At-home remedies include getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated, and taking over-the-counter medications.