The risk of contracting an illness is higher during the winter months because people spend more time indoors, increasing the risk of infection. The common cold and the flu are the most common seasonal illnesses that affect millions of people around the world.
The following examines the differences between a common cold and the flu. We also reveal what you should do if you believe you may have contracted a seasonal illness.
Differences Between a Cold and the Flu
A cold is more common than the flu and generally not a cause for concern. The symptoms are similar but more severe with the flu. Typically, a cold will come on gradually and only last for a few days. The flu usually begins abruptly, demonstrates severe symptoms, and lasts anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
Symptoms of a Cold
The average adult will get a few colds every year. Patients with a cold rarely exhibit a fever and experience mild symptoms, including a cough, sore throat, mild body aches, runny nose, and mild to moderate fatigue.
Symptoms of the Flu
Patients with the flu suffer from more severe symptoms and can experience dangerous complications.
Symptoms May Include:
- Fever for 3-5 Days
- Headache
- Sore Throat
- Cough
- Moderate to Severe Body Aches
- Severe Body Chills
There are numerous complications that can result from the flu, including infections and pneumonia. Thousands of patients are hospitalized and die from the flu every year.
Transmission
The flu and the common cold are both transmitted easily from person to person through close contact, or by touching a contaminated surface. It is important to practice good hygiene, including through handwashing to prevent the spread of illness. You should also stay home from work and/or school if you believe that you have been ill.
Where to Get Treatment
It is important to get tested if you believe that you may have the flu. This can help you prevent any complications that could arise and stop from transmitting the virus to people around you. Urgent Care Centers are a practical, affordable, and fast way to get tested and treated for seasonal illnesses.
Urgent Care is a wise choice for many individuals and families because you can stop in at your convenience, not interrupting your schedule to visit a primary physician. Urgent cares are covered by most insurance and can treat a wide range of illnesses or injuries, including a cold or the flu.
Stop At Your Local Urgent Care Today
Stop in at your local Urgent Care Center today if you believe that you may have contracted the flu. Get peace of mind with a quick test or a diagnosis so that you can rest and recover as quickly as possible. Contact your local Urgent Care Center today for more information about their wide range of services.