Is it a cold or the flu?

In short: colds come on slowly and are usually mild. Flu tends to start suddenly, with fever, aches and exhaustion. Most people get better at home with rest and fluids, but some people should contact a doctor early.

How they differ

Cold: comes on gradually; mainly a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing and a sore throat; fever is uncommon in adults; you can usually carry on with daily life.
Flu: often comes on suddenly; fever or feeling feverish, chills, body aches, headache, a dry cough and feeling very tired; you may need to stay in bed.

COVID-19 can look like either, so a test can help if you're not sure.

Looking after yourself

Rest and drink plenty of fluids.
Over-the-counter remedies can ease symptoms. Follow the instructions on the packet, check with a pharmacist if you take other medicines, and don't give aspirin to children or teenagers.
Antibiotics don't work on colds or flu, which are caused by viruses.
Stay home while you have a fever, wash your hands often, and cover coughs and sneezes.

Who should contact a doctor early with flu

Antiviral medicines work best when started early. Contact a doctor soon after flu symptoms start if you're 65 or older, pregnant, have a long-term condition such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease, have a weak immune system, or if the person who is ill is a young child.

When to get urgent help

Call 911 or your local emergency number or get urgent care for:

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Pain or pressure in the chest or belly
Sudden dizziness, confusion or being hard to wake
Seizures
Not urinating, or signs of dehydration
Symptoms that get better and then return with a fever and worse cough
In children: fast breathing, bluish lips or face, or ribs pulling in with each breath

Prevention