Difference between a cold and the flu

Main Category: Public Health
Also Included In: Flu / Cold / SARS
Article Date: 05 Jan 2004 - 0:00 PDT

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A COLD

Fever - rare
Headache - rare
General aches and pains - Sometimes (mild)
Fatigue and weakness - Sometimes (mild)
Extreme fatigue - Very rare
Runny, stuffy nose - Common
Sneezing - Common
Sore throat - Common
Chest discomfort, coughing - Sometimes (mild to moderate)
Complications - Possible sinus congestion or earache

THE FLU

Fever - Yes (102°F/39°C - 104°F/40°C)
Headache - Usual (can be severe)
General aches and pains - Usual, often severe
Fatigue and weakness - Usual, severe, can last 2-3 weeks
Extreme fatigue - Usual early onset, can be severe
Runny, stuffy nose - Common
Sneezing - Sometimes
Sore throat - Common
Chest discomfort, coughing - Usual, can become severe
Complications - Can lead to pneumonia and respiratory failure, can worsen a current chronic condition, can be life-threatening.

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