The flu, or influenza, is a viral infection of the nose, throat, and lungs. The flu can spread from person to person. Influenza is a serious and contagious respiratory illness that's caused by the influenza virus.
Symptoms can range from mild to severe, sometimes leading to pneumonia, bronchitis, and ear infections. Some groups are at a higher risk than others, including the elderly, young children, and people with certain health conditions.
We know it’s confusing, but you may be able to tell them apart. Both have similar symptoms: sore throat, cough, and runny nose. However, children who have a common cold tend to have milder symptoms, while those who have the flu have symptoms that usually appear without warning and include body aches and fever.