The flu is not "just a cold," but because the common cold and seasonal
flu have similar symptoms, it can be difficult to tell them apart. In general, a
cold is milder than the flu and typically does not result in serious health
problems such as pneumonia or hospitalizations.
Since the flu can make older people very sick,
you should know the
difference between flu and
cold symptoms.
*Not everyone will develop a fever. People with the flu often feel some or all of these symptoms.
If you or someone you're caring for is at high risk for flu-related complications and is experiencing any of the emergency signs below, please get medical attention immediately.*
*These symptoms are representative and may vary by individual.