Is It a Cold or the Flu?
You feel lousy. Your head is stuffed up. Your nose is running.
Everyone at work is talking about the flu...but you're not sure what you have. This chart might help:
| Symptoms |
It Could be Flu |
It's a Cold |
| Chest Hurts |
Common |
Mild/Moderate |
| Cough |
Dry, can be severe |
Hacking, mild |
| Exhaustion |
Extreme, early onset |
Never |
| Fever |
Common, lasts 3-4 days |
Rare |
| Headache |
Yes |
Rare |
| Onset |
Sudden |
Gradual, usually starts with sniffles |
| Muscle Aches and Pains |
Usual, often severe |
Slight |
| Sneezing |
Sometimes |
Usually |
| Sore Throat |
Sometimes |
Usually |
| Stuffy Nose |
Sometimes |
Usually |
| Tired, Weak |
Can last two weeks |
Mild |
If your symptoms get worse:
Remember, colds are just as contagious as the flu. Protect your family by covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Wash your hands often.
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