Click to view CDC Guide to help you identify and treat the flu.
Cold or Flu... What to Do?
You've probably heard about it on the news or seen it for yourself... we are experiencing an especially active flu season this year. But, how do you know if it's the flu or just a cold? Use this chart of symptoms, treatments, and prevention tips from the North Dakota Department of Health to guide your diagnosis.
COMMON SYMPTOMS
| COLD | FLU | |
|---|---|---|
| Fever | Rare | Characteristic, High Fever (101-104 degrees, lasting 3 to 4 days |
| Headache | Rare | Prominent |
| General Aches & Pains | Slight | Usual, Often Severe |
| Fatigue, Weakness | Quite Mild | Can Last 2 to 3 Weeks |
| Extreme Exhaustion | Never | Early and Prominent |
| Stuffy Nose | Common | Sometimes |
| Sneezing | Usual | Sometimes |
| Sore Throat | Common | Sometimes |
| Chest Discomfort, Cough | Mild to Moderate Hacking Cough | Common, Can be Severe |
Recommended Treatment
| COLD | FLU |
|---|---|
| Antibiotics do not work for a cold. Use over-the-counter medications for temporary symptom relief. | Anitbiotics do not work. See your doctor for anitiviral medicines. |
Complications
| COLD | FLU |
|---|---|
| Sinus Congestion or Earache | Bronchitis or Pneumoia That Can Be Life Threatening |
Prevention Tips
| COLD | FLU |
|---|---|
| Respiratory hygiene | Annual vaccination, anitiviral medicines, respiratory hygiene |
