Use this table to help determine if you or a family member has a cold or the flu.
| Symptom | Cold | Flu (influenza) |
|---|---|---|
| Fever | Rare | Usual, high fever (39°C/102°F to 40°C/104°F); sudden onset, lasts 3-4 days |
| Headache | Rare | Usual, can be severe |
| General aches and pains | Sometimes, mild | Usual, often severe |
| Tired and weak | Sometimes, mild | Usual, may last 2-3 weeks or more |
| Extreme fatigue | Unusual | Usual, early onset |
| Runny, stuffy nose | Common | Common |
| Sneezing | Common | Sometimes |
| Sore throat | Common | Common |
| Chest discomfort, coughing | Sometimes, mild to moderate | Usual, can be severe |
| Complications | Can lead to sinus congestion or earache |
Can lead to pneumonia and respiratory failure; Can worsen a current chronic respiratory condition; Can be life-threatening |
When to seek medical attention
If you develop the following symptoms, visit a health care provider right away:
- Shortness of breath, rapid breathing or difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Bluish or grey skin colour
- Bloody or coloured mucus/spit
- Sudden dizziness or confusion
- Severe or persistent vomiting
- High fever lasting more than three days
- Low blood pressure
Additional symptoms to watch for in children
- Not drinking enough fluids or eating
- Not waking up or interacting
- Irritability; not wanting to play or be held