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Recognising the symptoms.

Influenza or common cold?

Many people confuse influenza with a bad cold. Influenza has a sudden onset and symptoms can last for up to two weeks, keeping you in bed for a number of days.

You will often experience a combination of symptoms with influenza or a cold. It is important to know the difference because when it comes to influenza, there are treatments available, provided you act fast.

The following Symptom Chart highlights the differences between influenza and the common cold.

Symptom Chart

  SYMPTOMS INFLUENZA COLD
F Fever/Chills Common Uncommon
A Aches and pains Common and severe, prominent headache Mild, headaches rare
C Cough Common Less common, mild / moderate
T Tiredness Common and severe Mild
S Sudden onset Sudden Gradual
  • Fever (usually high) / chills
  • Headache
  • Body aches and pains
  • Dry cough
  • Extreme tiredness
  • Sudden onset

You don't need to experience all of these symptoms to have the flu. If you have one or two, it's recommended that you see your pharmacist. Influenza symptoms can be mild or severe — and if they're mild they can become severe without any warning.

Be aware of your body and regularly monitor your temperature.