Cold and Flu
What Is a Cold and a Flu?
Colds and flu are contagious viral respiratory infections that cause symptoms like coughs and sore throats. The key differences are that flu symptoms are usually more intense, come on suddenly, and often include fever and body aches, while cold symptoms tend to be milder, develop gradually, and are more focused on a runny nose and stuffy nose. You can relieve symptoms with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter remedies, but antibiotics are ineffective against viruses.
Prevalence and Age Distribution
Children tend to have a higher prevalence of both colds and flu, while the elderly have the lowest rates of symptomatic flu but face a higher risk of severe complications, hospitalization, and death. Adult infection rates are generally between those of children and the elderly.
Common Symptoms
Sore Throat: A burning or scratchy feeling in the throat that can make it hurt to swallow or talk.
Cough: A respiratory symptom that can occur with both colds and the flu.
Runny or Stuffy Nose: A common sign of a cold, but can also be present with the flu.
