Learn About Cold & Flu

Do I have the flu?

Many symptoms of the common cold are similar to that of the flu, but the flu can have more serious complications that result in bacterial infections or hospitalizations.1

Family in bed looking ill with tissues to their noses

Although they are both viral infections of the respiratory tract and are contagious, the cold is far less severe than the flu¹ and it is helpful to know whether you need to take extra precautions.

DO I HAVE A COLD OR THE FLU?

Many people that have a heavy cold can think they have the flu. However, a common cold usually includes the likes of sneezing, stuffy nose and a sore throat, whereas the flu often consists of fevers, aches and chills too.¹

What are the symptoms of the flu?

A high fever
Chills or sweats
Sore and aching muscles
A headache
Nasal congestion
Sore throat or a dry cough
Fatigue and weakness
Loss of appetite

Many people with the flu that have mild illness do not need medical care or drugs. If, however, you are very sick and are growing worried, you should contact a health care provider immediately.²

HOW LONG DO FLU SYMPTOMS LAST?

According to Harvard Medical School, the duration of flu symptoms depends on your health³. There are also some people that are at risk of more severe reactions – such as those who are very young, older than 65, or people who are pregnant or with chronic illnesses etc. However, they suggest that symptoms usually appear from one to four days after exposure, and last from five to seven days.

IS DIARRHEA A SYMPTOM OF THE FLU?

Diarrhea, stomach pains, nausea and sickness can be the flu, but this is not something that happens often. If this is the case, you may actually have “stomach flu”. Despite its name, this is not actually flu – or influenza – and is when your stomach and intestines are inflamed and irritated.

Always keep your surfaces disinfected with Lysol® Disinfectant Spray or Lysol® Disinfecting Wipes to decrease the amount of flu germs in your area. And, if you’re feeling very sick or your symptoms don’t improve, be sure to seek medical attention.