Cold & Flu

During the winter, Canadians are often affected by the common cold and seasonal influenza (the flu).

  • What is the difference between a cold and the flu?
  • What are the symptoms of a cold?
  • How do colds spread from one person to another?
  • What are the symptoms of the flu?
  • How does the flu spread from one person to another?
  • How can I protect myself and my family from colds and the flu?

What is the difference between a cold and the flu?

The common cold affects the upper respiratory tract (nose, nasal passages, throat) as a mild viral infection caused by more than 200 viruses, primarily rhinovirus. It is common, with adults averaging from two to five colds annually. There is no vaccination against the common cold.

Influenza, caused by a different virus, is a more serious infection of the airways and lungs, occurring seasonally between November and April. It is highly contagious and can lead to severe complications like pneumonia, especially for vulnerable groups. Vaccinations are available annually to prevent influenza.

What are the symptoms of a cold?

Cold symptoms include a runny nose, sore throat, coughing, sneezing, headache, chills, muscle aches, and laryngitis. Colds usually last from two to seven days but can persist up to two weeks. Unlike the flu, colds typically do not cause fever or nausea, though severe cases can lead to sinusitis or pneumonia.

How do colds spread from one person to another?

Colds spread through close and prolonged contact, as well as through coughs, sneezes, and contaminated surfaces. Exposure to a cold virus does not guarantee infection, and infected individuals may not display symptoms.

What are the symptoms of the flu?

Flu symptoms are similar to cold symptoms but more severe and sudden in onset. They include runny nose, cough, sore throat, fever or feeling feverish, headaches, body aches, chills, fatigue, decreased appetite, and sometimes nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Recovery from the flu generally takes about a week, but complications like pneumonia can occur, especially in vulnerable individuals.

How does the flu spread from one person to another?

The flu spreads easily through airborne particles from coughs and sneezes, as well as by touching contaminated surfaces and subsequently touching the face.

How can I protect myself and my family from colds and the flu?

Effective precautions include:

  • Washing hands frequently with soap and water or using hand sanitizer.
  • Avoiding touching nose, eyes, and mouth with hands.
  • Coughing and sneezing into the arm instead of the hand.
  • Cleaning frequently touched surfaces.
  • Maintaining good nutrition and physical activity.
  • If ill, limiting contact with others to prevent spread.
  • Receiving annual flu vaccinations.

For more information, consult with a pharmacist or medical professional.

This health information was sourced from Health Canada (www.hc-sc.gc.ca), the Public Health Agency of Canada (www.fightflu.ca and www.phac-aspc.gc.ca), and the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (www.ccohs.ca). It is intended for informational purposes only and should not replace consultation with a healthcare professional. This material and affiliated entities are not liable for errors, omissions, or inconsistencies, nor do they accept liability for reliance on the contained information.