As schools and kindergartens fill up again, viruses return for another round. Most of us will feel tired, have a runny nose, and cough, but distinguishing between a “regular” cold and the flu can affect treatment and the decision of if and when to seek medical advice. Here’s everything you need to know, clearly and concisely.
How to Identify the Flu
The flu is characterized by rapid symptom onset and an overall exhausting feeling:
- Sudden high fever
- Body aches all over
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- Noticeable fatigue or exhaustion
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea or stomach aches (mainly in children)
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Nausea/vomiting
In children, earaches and reduced usual activity may also appear.
Recommended Home Treatment for Flu
- Rest and sleep – the body needs energy to recover.
- Plenty of fluids – light-colored urine is a good indicator of adequate hydration.
- Fever and pain relief – paracetamol or ibuprofen according to leaflet/doctor’s instructions. For children: check appropriate dosage based on age/weight.
- Light, nutritious meals; avoid physical strain.
Tip for Parents: If your child is suffering, it’s okay to give paracetamol/ibuprofen (not together, but according to instructions). Unsure? Consult a pharmacist or doctor.
What Characterizes a Cold?
A cold usually starts gradually and remains milder:
- Runny or congested nose
- Mild cough
- Sneezing
- Hoarseness
- Sore throat
- Mild fatigue
- Sometimes low fever, mild muscle aches, pressure in ears/face
- Temporary loss of taste/smell
<br>Home Treatment for a Cold
- Plenty of fluids and rest
- Hot honey and lemon for sore throat (not for infants under 1 year)
- Steam/inhalation to relieve nasal congestion
- Adults: Saltwater gargle for sore throat (not suitable for children)
- Saline sprays for the nose, and keep rooms ventilated
<br>Flu vs. Cold – Rules of Thumb for Identification
- Speed of onset: Flu – sudden; Cold – gradual
- Symptom intensity: Flu – strong (bedridden); Cold – mild to moderate
- Fever: Flu – often high; Cold – sometimes low or none
- Body aches/fatigue: Prominent in flu, mild in cold
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical advice promptly if you or your child have flu and are:
- Parents concerned about an infant/child with significant symptoms
- 65+ years old
- Pregnant
- With chronic conditions: Heart, lungs, kidneys, diabetes, neurological diseases
- Immunocompromised (due to chemotherapy or diseases causing immune deficiency)
- Symptoms not improving after 7 days
Go to the emergency room immediately if any of these occur:
- Sharp chest pain
- Significant difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Vomiting blood or coughing up significant blood-tinged phlegm
- Confusion, unusual drowsiness, signs of severe dehydration (little urine, extreme mouth dryness, apathy)
Important to Know: Antiviral medications for the flu may help at-risk groups – but only if started within 48-72 hours of symptom onset. Don’t wait if you’re in a risk group and the condition worsens.
Fluids, Fever, and Medications – How to Do It Right
- Fluids: Water, clear broth, herbal tea. During flu – especially important to prevent dehydration.
- Medications for fever or pain: Paracetamol or ibuprofen according to age and recommended dosage. Avoid combining medications without checking for duplicates (e.g., paracetamol hidden in different syrups/tablets).
- Infants and children: Never give aspirin.
<br>Hygiene and Prevention – Because Avoiding Infection Is Best
- Seasonal flu vaccination – especially recommended for the elderly, pregnant women, and chronic patients, but beneficial for the general population.
- Frequent hand washing or regular use of hand sanitizer, especially after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
- Ventilate closed spaces, avoid crowds when feeling ill.
- Cough and sneeze into the sleeve, not hands.
- At home: Personal utensils for the sick person, clean commonly touched surfaces (handles, switches, phones).
How Long Does It Last?
Cold: Usually 3-7 days; mild cough may last another week or two.
Flu: Typically one week of more severe symptoms, followed by gradual improvement. Fatigue may last another week.
<br>Quick Questions Parents Often Ask
Do I have to see a doctor for every flu?
No. Most cases can be managed at home. If you are in a risk group, the condition worsens, or there is no improvement – seek advice.
Is it okay to send my child to daycare/school?
If there is significant fever or weakness – stay home until 24 hours after the fever drops without medication.
Milk/dairy during a cold?
If milk seems to “thicken” mucus – it can be temporarily reduced. No need to avoid entirely if it doesn’t cause discomfort.
Bottom Line
- Flu comes on fast and strong: High fever, body aches, and fatigue – requiring rest, fluids, and fever reduction.
- A cold develops slowly, usually milder, and manageable at home.
- Risk groups and warning symptoms require prompt medical consultation.
- Prevention works: Vaccination, hygiene, and ventilation – making winter easier to get through.