IS IT A

Cold OR
THE Flu?
SY M P TO M S

COLD

FLU

FEVE R

Rare

Usual; high (100F to 102F, occasionally higher,

especially in young children); lasts 3 to 4 days

HEADA CH E

Rare

Common

GEN E RAL A CH ES, PA INS

Slight

Usual; often severe

FAT IGU E, WEAKNESS

Sometimes

Usual; can last up to 2 to 3 weeks

E XT REME EXH AU STIO N

Never

Usual; at the beginning of the illness

ST UFF Y NO SE

Common

Sometimes

SN E E ZING

Usual

Sometimes

SORE THROAT

Common

Sometimes

CHEST DISCO MF ORT, CO UGH

Mild to moderate; hacking cough

COLD

T R E AT M E N T

Antihistamines

Decongestants

PREVENTION

C O M P L I C AT I O N S

Common; can become severe

FLU

Antiviral medicinessee your healthcare

provider

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
medicines
Wash your hands often with soap
and water

Avoid close contact with anyone who

has a cold

Annual vaccination
Antiviral medicinessee your healthcare
provider

Sinus infection

Bronchitis, pneumonia

Middle ear infection

Can worsen chronic conditions

Asthma

Can be life-threatening. Complications more

likely in the elderly, those with chronic
conditions, young children, and pregnant
women.

August 2014
www.niaid.nih.gov