Recognizing Influenza Symptoms
The chart below offers a quick summary of the differences between the cold and influenza. Share this with your patients so they can better understand their influenza symptoms.
Symptoms at a glance — cold vs. flu2,9
| Signs and Symptoms |
Influenza |
Cold |
| Onset |
Sudden |
Gradual |
| Fever* |
Common; lasting 3-4 days |
Rare |
| Cough |
Dry; can become severe |
Hacking; mild |
| Headache |
Prominent |
Rare |
| Muscle/joint aches, pain |
Usual; often severe |
Slight |
| Fatigue and weakness |
Can last up to 2 weeks |
Very mild |
| Extreme exhaustion |
Early and prominent |
Never |
| Chest discomfort |
Common |
Mild/moderate |
| Stuffy nose |
Sometimes |
Common |
| Sneezing |
Sometimes |
Usually |
| Sore throat |
Sometimes |
Common |
Help your patients understand the difference between cold and flu symptoms by sharing this important information. Print this page to give to your patients.
Next topic: CDC Recommendations for Flu Treatment and Prophylaxis
