According to the Center for Disease Control, Influenza (the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccination each year. Every year in the United States, on average 5% to 20% of the population gets the flu; more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu complications, and; about 36,000 people die from flu-related causes. Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk for serious flu complications.
| Signs & Symptoms | Influenza | Cold |
|---|---|---|
| Aches | Usual, often severe | Slight |
| Chest discomfort | Often severe | Mild to moderate |
| Chills | Fairly common | Uncommon |
| Coughing | Dry, unproductive cough | Hacking, productive cough |
| Fever | Usually present | Rare |
| Headache | Common | Uncommon |
| Sneezing | Uncommon | Common |
| Sore throat | Uncommon | Common |
| Stuffy nose | Uncommon | Common |
| Symptom onset | Symptoms can appear within three to six hours | Symptoms gradually appear |
| Tiredness | Moderate to severe | Mild |