iStock/ThinkstockBy DR. JENNIFER ASHTON, ABC News Senior Medical Contributor
Many people get a cold and the flu confused, but the reality is they are very different.
The common cold is common and definitely makes you feel awful — symptoms include a sore throat, nasal congestion and coughing. Colds normally last less than a week, although the coughing part can persist much longer.
The flu virus, on the other hand, is not a bad cold. It usually comes on very quickly. Hallmark signs include a high fever, chills, body aches, severe headache and chest pain. Influenza often lasts more than one week and can lead to bacterial pneumonia.
So what are the best chances for protection? Wash your hands often and don’t touch your face — that’s one way of transmitting these viruses. And if you’re sick, try to stay home so you don’t get others sick as well.
Copyright © 2016, ABC Radio. All rights reserved.
