If you’re sniffling and sneezing and trying to find out whether you have a cold or something more serious like the flu check this out. Timing is important. November thru March is usually deemed the flu season. The cold season usually happens in early Spring and fall when kids are just returning to school. Experts agree that a lot of the symptoms are the same between a cold virus or the flu, but there are some differences. Colds usually take a few days to build up while the flu usually strikes you right away. Colds typically last 3-5 days and the flu usually lasts 1-2 weeks. Sore throats, runny noses, and head congestion tend to be more cold symptoms while headaches, body aches, and dry coughs usually point to the flu.
The most important distinction is that one is deadly. The flu kills 35,000 Americans each year so make sure you wash your hands.
Looking to get a flu shot? Head over to the CDC’s website to find a place near you.
