Influenza (flu) and a cold are both respiratory infections caused by viruses. Some of the symptoms are similar and it can sometimes be difficult to tell if you have the flu or a very bad cold. The flu can cause more serious illness than a common cold. Your best protection against the flu is an annual flu shot. You can decrease your chances of getting a cold by frequently washing your hands and avoiding touching your nose, eyes and mouth. The average adult gets 1-3 respiratory illnesses each year. However, it would be unusual to get the flu more than once a year.
Colds usually begin slowly, two to three days after infection by the virus and normally last only two to seven days. A bad cold can last up to two weeks, but this is unusual. You will first notice a scratchy, sore throat, followed by sneezing and a runny nose. You may get a mild cough several days later. Adults and older children usually don't have a fever, but if they do, it will be very mild.
If you have the flu, you will have a sudden headache and dry cough, and you might have a runny nose and a sore throat. Your muscles will ache, you will be very tired and you can have a fever up to 104° F. Most people feel better in a couple of days, but the tiredness and cough can last for two weeks or longer.
The flu is a respiratory illness. You cannot have a “stomach flu.” Symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea and vomiting are uncommon with the flu, except in very young children.
Almost everyone can benefit from a flu shot. But some people have a greater need to be protected and they should make a special effort to get this protection each year, early in the flu season (October or November).
The Northwest Florida Area Agency on Aging, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) private,
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and the State of Florida Department of Elder Affairs.
Page was last updated on 6/29/2004.
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