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Differences between a cold and the flu

Differences between a cold and the flu

It is impossible to distinguish between COVID-19 and the flu based solely on symptoms, because they are alike. A screening test must be performed.

A cold and the flu are respiratory tract infections that are often confused. Colds are more common and milder than the flu. The flu can be very serious.

Symptoms

Flu symptoms and their severity can vary with age and health status.

Comparison of flu and cold symptoms
Symptoms	Flu	Cold
Fever	Common Temperature between 38 °C and 40 °C (between 100.4 °F and 104 °F) Sudden onset	Absent or mild
Cough	Common Sudden onset	Common Mild or moderate
Headaches	Common Sometimes severe	Rare
Aches and pains	Common Sometimes severe	Rare Mild
Fatigue	Common Severe Duration: a few days, sometimes longer	Common Mild
Nausea and vomiting	Rare in adults More common in children Often accompanied by diarrhea and abdominal pain in children	Rare Mild
Runny or stuffy nose	Rare, more common in children	Common
Sneezing	Rare	Common
Sore throat	Common	Common

If you have symptoms

You can call Info-Santé 811 any time for specific advice about your situation.

If you have flu symptoms, see the Flu (Influenza) page for advice on how to treat yourself.

Differences between a cold and the flu

Symptoms

If you have symptoms

See also