The common cold and influenza are both caused by viral infections. The symptoms are similar but flu tends to be more severe.

 

The common cold remains infectious for 3-5 days and generally tends to last between 7-10 days. 30-50% of lost workdays in adults and 60-80% of lost schooldays for children are a result of colds and flu.

 

There are no vaccines available to prevent common colds. However medical treatment aims to reduce symptoms allowing you to feel more comfortable and have the ability to continue with your daily routine, and to allow the body’s natural defences to combat the virus

 

Commonly used preparations include nasal decongestants, pain relievers and cough suppressants to provide relief.

 

Comparing colds and flu – occurrence of symptoms

Symptoms	Flu	Common Cold
Stuffy nose	77%	67%
Headache	71%	68%
Runny Nose	68%	53%
Aches and pains	37%	13%
Sore throat	29%	40%
Coughing	25%	25%
Fever	25%	10%

Source: Research International

 

See Symptoms for duration and progression of the common cold.