Cold and Flu The flu and the common cold are both respiratory
illnesses but they are caused by different viruses. Because
these two types of illnesses have similar flu-like symptoms, it
can be difficult to tell the difference between them based on
symptoms alone. In general, the flu is worse than the common
cold, and symptoms such as fever, body aches, extreme tiredness,
and dry cough are more common and intense. Colds are usually
milder than the flu. People with colds are more likely to have a
runny or stuffy nose. Colds generally do not result in serious
health problems, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or
hospitalizations. The flu season will last through fall and
winter. For the most up to date information, including guidance
for colleges and universities, visit the CDC website and the
Department of Health and Human Services website Flu.gov. - Get a
flu shot to help protect yourself from seasonal flu. Available
from the Health Clinic at your teaching site. - Get a pneumonia
shot to prevent seconda