Flu vs. Cold: Symptoms Compared

Flu vs. Cold: Symptoms Compared

Influenza

Flu vs. Cold: How to Tell the Difference

The two share overlapping symptoms but differ in onset speed and severity — a useful distinction for deciding how urgently someone should stay home.

Feature Cold Flu
Onset Gradual Sudden
Fever Rare or mild Common, often high
Body aches Mild Often severe
Fatigue Mild Can be severe, lasting weeks
Recovery time 7–10 days 1–2 weeks or longer

Symptom overlap means self-diagnosis isn’t always reliable — testing is the only definitive way to distinguish the two. From a workplace policy perspective, both warrant the same response: encourage rest at home per your sick leave policy, regardless of which one it turns out to be.

This page provides general information and is not medical advice.

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