Is it Influenza or a Cold
Every year many people get influenza, however many more get a cold. A cold is a very common viral infection that most people recover from with no further health concerns. Influenza is a severe respiratory illness that can have serious consequences for the very young, old, and immunocompromised. While signs and symptoms of influenza and a cold are similar, the severity may vary. This chart outlines the difference between influenza and a cold. If you think you have influenza, you should stay home from work and contact your health care provider.
|
Symptom |
Influenza |
Cold |
|---|---|---|
|
Fever |
Usual, may be high, sudden onset, may last 3 to 4 days |
Rare |
|
Headache |
Usual, can be severe |
Rare |
|
Chest discomfort, coughing |
Usual, can become severe |
Sometimes, mild to moderate |
|
General aches and pains |
Usual, often severe |
Sometimes, mild |
|
Extreme fatigue |
Usual, early onset, can be severe |
Unusual |
|
Weakness |
Usual, severe, may last 2 to 3 weeks or more |
Sometimes, mild |
|
Runny, stuffy nose |
Common |
Common |
|
Sneezing |
Sometimes |
Common |
|
Sore throat |
Common |
Common |
|
Complications |
Can lead to pneumonia, can worsen a current chronic condition, can be life-threatening |
Can lead to sinus congestion or earache |
|
Prevention |
ANNUAL IMMUNIZATION and frequent hand hygiene |
Frequent hand hygiene |
Revised: 2014-02-06