FLU VS COLD

The common cold and flu are both caused by infections in our throat and lungs and share many of the same symptoms. It’s not always easy to tell whether you have flu or just a cold; however flu can be serious and at times life-threatening whilst the common cold is likely just to cause you a few days of feeling unwell.

In general, flu symptoms are worse than cold symptoms.

If you have a cold

• You feel under the weather for a few days before your symptoms show up
• You have a variety of symptoms but they are generally mild
• You probably have a blocked or runny nose, a sore throat and maybe even a mild cough
• Your temperature may be a little high making you feel shivery
• Although you feel unwell, you can do most of your normal daily activities like going to work, driving, shopping and cooking

If you have flu

• You can feel perfectly well then suddenly feel very ill
• Your symptoms are generally more severe than with a cold
• You may or may not have a blocked or runny nose or a sore throat
• Your temperature is high, you have chills and your muscles ache
• You feel exhausted, you are unable to carry out basic daily tasks and will probably have to go to bed

It’s important to be able to spot the signs of flu so that you can take action to reduce your risks from this disease if needed.