Cold vs. Flu — What's the Difference?

Colds and the flu are both respiratory illnesses but are caused by different viruses. Colds are generally milder and more likely to cause runny or stuffy noses, whereas the flu can lead to severe health complications such as pneumonia, especially in the elderly, young children, and people with certain chronic health conditions.

The onset of symptoms in a cold is usually gradual, with sufferers often experiencing a sore throat early on, followed by sneezing, runny nose, and coughing. On the other hand, flu symptoms come on quickly and can include fever, headache, muscle aches, soreness, congestion, and cough. The intensity of the flu makes it more debilitating and likely to lead to bed rest.

Colds typically do not result in serious health issues or require hospital visits, with most people recovering within a week to ten days. In contrast, the flu can have serious complications, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations, and recovery might take longer.

Prevention strategies for both include frequent handwashing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support the immune system. Additionally, annual flu vaccinations are recommended as a key preventive measure against the flu, whereas there's no vaccine for the common cold.

While over-the-counter medications can relieve symptoms of both colds and the flu, antiviral drugs may be prescribed for the flu to reduce the severity and duration of the illness if taken shortly after symptoms begin. In contrast, treatment for colds mainly focuses on relieving symptoms and providing comfort during recovery.