Cold Vs. Flu Vs. Virus

A type of virus causes both the common cold and the flu, or influenza. Different viruses cause these very similar respiratory illnesses. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), more than 200 different viruses are capable of causing the common cold. In contrast, there are two main types of influenza, or flu virus, Types A and B. A new virus that has recently emerged causes the 2009 H1N1 virus, or flu.

Virus

• A virus is a parasitic organism that needs living cells in order to survive. They have a core of RNA or DNA surrounded by a coating of protein. These parasites are capable of causing many types of disease and illness, including the common cold and influenza.

Cold

• The common cold is frequently caused by the rhinovirus. Symptoms of the cold include sore throat, sneezing, coughing and runny nose and can last for up to two weeks.

Influenza

• Usually, the flu is more severe than the common cold, with fever, fatigue and body aches also occurring. It is sometimes impossible to tell the difference between cold and flu without special laboratory testing.

Flu Testing

• Physicians may order testing for the influenza virus type A and type B, as well as for H1N1. These tests are typically done by a naso-pharyngeal swab; a test that requires a health care provider to swab the nose or throat.

Treatment

• If you have the flu, antiviral medication may be given. Otherwise, the best thing to do to recover from a cold or the flu is to get plenty of rest and stay hydrated. Over the counter medications may be taken as directed to alleviate symptoms if needed.

Prevention

• Frequent hand washing is the best way to prevent the spread of both the common cold and the flu. Stay away from those who are already infected.