Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses. The flu also tends to come on suddenly. 

The common cold is also a respiratory illness, but is caused by a different virus. The symptoms are similar, but much more severe if you have the flu. However, there are differences. For example people with a cold are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. 

Flu symptoms:

• Fever* or feeling feverish/chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue (tiredness)
• Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

* It’s important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.

Because cold and flu symptoms are so similar, it is easier to talk about them in comparison with each indication. 

Below is a chart that may help determine whether you have a cold, the flu, or COVID-19.