So, you’re feeling under the weather and wondering if it’s just a cold or the flu, which is hitting hard this year. How can you tell the difference? Dr. Gérald Kierzek, an emergency doc and the medical director at Doctissimo, has some insights.
Cold and Flu: They’re Pretty Similar
Stuffy nose, fever, headaches… Winter is prime time for these symptoms. But is it the flu or just a nasty cold? While both are respiratory infections and share a lot of symptoms, they’re caused by different viruses. Colds come from rhinoviruses, while the flu is caused by influenza viruses.
Flu Has a Distinct Timeline
Dr. Kierzek explains that the flu has a pretty clear timeline when it hits. It usually takes about 2 days to show symptoms, but it can be anywhere from 1 to 4 days. Here’s how it typically goes down:
- Days 1-2: Symptoms hit suddenly, with a high fever (over 39°C), chills, extreme tiredness, headaches, and body aches.
- Days 2-4: Symptoms get worse, bringing on a dry cough, sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, and watery or painful eyes.
- Days 5-7: This is when symptoms peak, and the fever can stick around for up to 5 days.
- Days 8-10: Finally, you’ll start to feel better, but you might still be tired and have a lingering cough.
On the flip side, a cold usually means a runny nose, sneezing, and maybe a bit of a sore throat, but you probably won’t have a fever, or it’ll only last a day.
Flu Hits Harder Than a Cold
Dr. Kierzek points out that the flu is definitely more intense than a cold. It can hit you like a ton of bricks. Sylvie van der Werf, a virology professor at the Pasteur Institute, puts it this way: “One minute you’re fine, and the next you’re feeling awful.” If you suddenly get a cough and fever during flu season, it’s safe to assume it’s the flu until proven otherwise.
Treatment is Pretty Much the Same
The only way to know for sure if you have the flu is through a virological test, but it won’t change how you treat it. Dr. Kierzek stresses that antibiotics won’t help with the flu or colds. The best approach is to be patient and treat the symptoms. Over-the-counter meds like paracetamol, nasal rinses, and some good old-fashioned home remedies can help. And while you’re recovering, it’s smart to wear a mask to avoid spreading it, wash your hands often, and keep your space well-ventilated.
However, if your fever spikes, or if you have other health issues, it’s a good idea to see a doctor. Sometimes, you might need antibiotics or even hospitalization for superinfections.
Get Vaccinated to Stay Safe
The best way to protect yourself from the flu is to get vaccinated, according to Dr. Kierzek. “Getting vaccinated against respiratory infections can help lower the risk of serious illness.” That’s why certain groups, like the elderly, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems, are encouraged to get the flu shot.
The flu vaccination campaign for the 2024-2025 season kicked off on October 15 in France and runs until January 31, 2025. You can even get it at the same time as your Covid-19 shot. Unfortunately, there’s no vaccine for the common cold, so just keep practicing good hygiene to avoid catching it.