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Cold, Flu & RTIs

Everything you need to know about cold, flu and respiratory tract infections (RTIs)

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What is the difference between colds and flu?

Both common colds and flu are caused by viruses, and both are respiratory infections. As a result, it can be difficult to tell the two apart – at least at a first glance. Though some symptoms are present in both conditions, for instance a blocked or runny nose, sore throat and headaches, flu symptoms are generally more severe. The following symptoms can be present in flu, but generally aren’t present in a cold:

The other difference between the two is longevity. While colds might only last for a few days, up to a week or so in the majority of cases, flu symptoms can be present for up to two weeks.

How do symptoms differ between colds, flu and RTIs?

Cold symptoms include the following:

  • Blocked or runny nose
  • Sore throat
  • Headaches
  • Muscle aches
  • Coughing
  • Sneezing
  • Elevated temperature
  • Feelings of pressure in the ears and face
  • Loss of taste and/or smell

Flu symptoms, however, include the following:

  • Running a fever (temperature of 38ºC or higher)
  • Sore throat
  • Headaches
  • Severe muscle aches
  • Dry coughing
  • Severe fatigue
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhoea and/or stomach pains

Respiratory tract infection (RTI) symptoms, on the other hand, include:

  • Running a fever (temperature of 38ºC or higher)
  • Blocked or runny nose
  • Sore throat
  • Headaches
  • Muscle aches
  • Throaty cough bringing up mucus/phlegm
  • Breathlessness or a tight chest

Cold, Flu & RTIs Treatment: