Health guidance on distinguishing colds from influenza

During the autumn and winter seasons, distinguishing between a common cold and influenza is important due to overlapping symptoms such as coughing, sore throat, and runny nose.

A common cold typically has a gradual onset, often starting with a scratchy throat, followed by congestion and fatigue. While mild temperature increases can occur, high fever is rare in adults, and symptoms usually subside within seven to ten days. Colds are frequently caused by rhino, seasonal corona, or adenovirus.

In contrast, influenza often sets in suddenly and more severely. Because there is no specific antiviral therapy for common colds, treatment focuses on symptom relief through rest, hydration, and saline nasal rinses.