Cough, cold and flu season is here, and recent reports suggest that flu-like illness is on the rise in some areas of Indiana. Your child comes home from school and complains of a sore throat, cough, and fatigue. Is it a simple common cold or could it be seasonal influenza or "the flu"? Sometimes it may be hard to tell the difference.
Colds, as the most common infectious disease in the United States, account for the greatest number of student absences from school. On average, children get 6-8 colds per year. Caused by rhinoviruses, colds usually last for 7-10 days and symptoms may include a sore throat, cough, stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, and mild or no fever.
Seasonal influenza on the other hand is a highly contagious and potentially serious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Generally, most cases of influenza occur during flu season from late November to early March. Flu F.A.C.T.S. (Fever, Aches, Chills/Cough, Tiredness, Sore Throat/Sudden Onset) is a good way to remember potential symptoms of the flu. The table below can also help you differentiate between a cold and the flu:
Flu vs. Colds
| Questions | Flu | Cold |
| Was the onset of illness... | Sudden | Slow |
| Does your child have a... | High fever | Mild fever or no fever |
| Is your child's exhaustion level... | Severe | Mild |
| Is your child's head... | Achy | Headache-free |
| Is your child's appetite... | Decreased | Normal |
| Are your child's muscles... | Achy | Fine |
| Does your child have... | Chills | No chills |
(KidsHealth, 2015)
If the majority of your answers are in the first column and it's "flu season," your child may have the flu. If the majority of your answers are in the second column, your child probably has a cold. Most importantly, contact your child's doctor right away if you suspect the flu or if your child has a "cold" that is severe or prolonged. In these cases, further evaluation and treatment may be needed. As always, help your child stay well by encouraging good hand washing, staying away from anyone who is sick, and getting an annual flu shot. It's not too late!
Resources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2016). Cold Versus Flu.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2017). Common Colds: Protect Yourself and Others.
KidsHealth (2015). Is it a Cold or the Flu?