Is it a cold or the flu?

Many people use the word “flu” when they actually have a cold. It’s easy to understand why so many people get these terms confused; both are respiratory infections caused by viruses and they can have similar symptoms. However, some symptoms are more common with a cold, while others the flu.

Can you tell the difference? Test your knowledge!

Is it more likely to be

Symptoms

Cold?

Flu?

Either?

fever (over 102°F or 39°C)

headache

general aches and pains

extreme exhaustion (feeling very tired)

stuffy/runny nose

sore throat

sneezing

cough (severe)

cough (mild to moderate)

rapid onset
(less than a day from fine to miserable)

gradual onset
(coming on for a day or two or more)