Common Cold A cold usually includes a runny nose, sore throat, sneezing, and coughing. These symptoms can last for up to two weeks. Over 200 viruses can cause the common cold. The rhinovirus is the most common type of virus that causes colds. | Flu Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses infecting the nose, throat and lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness. Serious outcomes of flu infection can result in hospitalization or death. Some people, such as older people, young children, pregnant women, and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk for serious flu complications. There are two main types of influenza (flu) virus: Types A and B. The influenza A and B viruses that routinely spread in people are responsible for seasonal flu epidemics each year. | How Cold and Flu Spreads Most experts believe that cold and flu viruses are spread by respiratory droplets propelled when people with cold or flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people 3 to 6 feet away. Less often, a person might get a cold or the flu by touching a surface/object that has the virus on it and then touching their mouth or nose. | Period of Contagiousness You may be able to pass on a cold or flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick. Most healthy adults may be able to infect others beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 5 to 7 days after becoming sick. Some people, especially young children and people with weakened immune systems, might be able to infect others for an even longer time. Sources: webmd; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services |
