As respiratory virus season ramps up, many patients find themselves asking a familiar question: “Is it just a cold, or is it the flu?”. While both illnesses share common symptoms, they differ in severity, how soon symptoms appear, and how long they last. Understanding the differences can help you decide when to rest at home, and when to seek medical support.
What causes the Cold and the Flu?
- Colds are usually cause by a variety of viruses, most commonly rhinoviruses.
- Influenza (flu) is caused specifically by influenza viruses.
How do they differ?
Although both colds and flu affect the respiratory system, they usually feel very different.
Cold symptoms (typically mild to moderate):
- a blocked or runny nose
- sneezing
- a sore throat
- a hoarse voice
- a cough
- feeling tired and unwell
Most people with a cold can continue with daily activities, though with some discomfort.
Flu symptoms (usually sudden and more intense):
- a sudden high temperature
- an aching body
- feeling tired or exhausted
- a dry cough
- a sore throat
- a headache
- difficulty sleeping
- loss of appetite
- diarrhoea or tummy pain
- feeling sick and being sick
Flu symptoms can be intense enough to disrupt daily routines for several days.
When should I seek medical care?
Most cases of cold or flu resolve on their own, but urgent care may be needed if you experience:
- difficulty breathing
- chest pain
- confusion
- persistent high fever
- symptoms lasting more than 10 days
- worsening symptoms after initial improvement
- you get cold symptoms and you have a long-term medical condition (for example, diabetes, or a heart, lung or kidney condition)
- you get cold symptoms and you have a weakened immune system (for example, because you’re having chemotherapy)
Certain groups, such as children, elderly adults, pregnant individuals, and those with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for flu complications.
Prevention Tips
- wash your hands regularly
- cover coughs and sneezes
- disinfect frequently touched surfaces
- avoid close contact with sick individuals
- stay home when ill
- get the seasonal flu vaccine – this is the most effective way to reduce risk of severe illness
Protect Yourself This Winter – Get Your Vaccination!
A flu vaccination is the best way to stay protected this Winter.
If you’re aged 65 and over, or 18-65 in a clinical risk group, then you can get a flu vaccination for free!
To book an appointment, please call 01392 255722 or fill out an eConsult on our website: https://mountpleasanthealthcentre.webgp.com/
NHS Website
For further details about the common cold, please visit the NHS website: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/common-cold/
For further details about influenza (flu), please visit the NHS website: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/flu/
Page created: 2nd December 2025
Page updated: 5th January 2026