The Flu vs Common Cold

Flu season is here!! So, what is the difference between the flu and a cold? The main difference is the presence of fever, chills, and body aches.

The Common Cold- a viral infection that can not be cured by antibiotics. It affects the upper respiratory system and is characterized by symptoms of sneezing, coughing, and sore throat. It can be caused by a number of viruses and it is thought that the body could never build up enough resistance to all of the viruses.

The Flu- also a virus called the influenza virus, is a more complicated virus which has different types and can lead to more complicated health problems such as pneumonia and meningitis. It affects the respiratory systems also and can be treated with antiviral medications (if started quickly) which can lessen the amount of time and symptoms of the sickness.

Unfortunately, there is no vaccine for the common cold but there is a vaccine for the flu. Those most likely affected by the flu include the very young and the very old. This is why this group of people are recommeneded to get the flu vaccine.

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