The differences between the flu and the common cold

Thus, the regional direction of public health of Montreal has seen fit to issue a reminder on the occasion of the holiday season to help the population to differentiate the symptoms of a flu and a cold.

Also to read:

Overall, flu symptoms are more frequent and intense than those of a cold.

Santé Montréal relied on information from the national public health department to issue its reminder.

COLD OR FLU? The flu and the common cold are respiratory tract infections that are often confused.

To compare the symptoms and see more clearly, go here:
French: https://t.co/FvxWDW0F2I
English: https://t.co/d8DjEvpRm3 pic.twitter.com/mzucfwh3YG

— Health Montreal (@santemontreal) December 25, 2022

Differences between flu and cold symptoms

Symptoms	Flu	Common cold
Fever	Frequent; sudden onset; temperature between 38 and 40°C	Absent or slight
Cough	Frequent; sudden onset	Frequent; mild or moderate
Headache	Frequent; sometimes intense	rare
Pains, aches	Frequent; sometimes intense	Rare; light
Fatigue	Frequent; intense (a few days, sometimes more)	Frequent; light
Nausea, vomiting	Rare (adults), frequent (children); often accompanied by diarrhea and stomach pain in children	Rare; light
Runny nose or congestion	Rare (adults), common (children)	Frequent
Sneezing	rare	Frequent
Sore throat	Frequent	Frequent

Source: Ministry of Health and Social Services

On the eve of Christmas 2022, the indicators show a clear decrease in the spread of influenza in the province, according to data from the National Institute of Public Health of Quebec (INSQ). These figures confirmed the decline of a first wave of seasonal flu.

TO SEE | Where are we with the virus cocktail?