Swansea University - The difference between a cold and flu
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The symptoms of flu and the common cold
Can you tell the difference between symptoms of flu and the common cold. Now that we have cases of “swine flu” in Wales, I think it is important that we learn more about the symptoms:
| Symptom | Cold | Flu |
|---|---|---|
| Fever | Rare with a cold | Fever is usually present with the flu in up to 80% of all flu cases. A temperature of 38 degrees or higher for 3 to 4 day is associated with the flu. |
| Coughing | A hacking, productive cough is often present with a cold. |
A non-productive cough is usually present with the flu – dry cough |
| Aches | Slight body aches and pains can be part of a cold. |
Severe aches and pains are common with the flu |
| Stuffy nose | Commonly present with a cold, and typically resolves within a week. |
Not commonly present with the flu |
| Chills | Uncommon with a cold | 60% of people with the flu experience chills |
| Tiredness | Fairly mild with a cold | Moderate to severe with the flu |
| Sneezing | Commonly present with a cold |
Not common with the flu |
| Sudden Symptoms |
Cold symptoms tend to develop over a few days |
The flu has a rapid onset within 3-6 hours. The flu hits hard and includes sudden symptoms like high fever, aches and pains. |
| Headache | Fairly uncommon with a cold | Very common with the flu, present in 80%of cases. |
| Sore Throat | Commonly present with a cold | Not commonly present with the flu |
| Chest Discomfort |
Mild to moderate |
Often severe with the flu |
This chart is not a substitute for actual medical diagnosis, if you have recently returned from an affected area and have flu-like symptoms please follow the following advice:
Stay at home, phone or GP or NHS direct (0845 4647) and you will be assessed and receive treatment if necessary.
