Telling a cold from the flu

In short: A cold usually begins slowly with a runny nose and sore throat; real flu (influenza) begins suddenly with high fever, aching limbs and a strong feeling of illness. Both are caused by viruses; antibiotics do not help.

In more detail: Colds are mostly harmless; influenza can take a severe course.

In detail

• Cold: Runny nose, scratchy throat, cough, mild fever, lasting about a week.
• Flu: Sudden high fever, severe muscle pain, chills, exhaustion.
• Treatment: Rest, plenty of fluids, warmth, if needed fever-reducing medicine according to the leaflet.
• Antibiotics: Work only against bacteria, not viruses.
• When to see a doctor: High fever over three days, shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion or worsening.
• Risk groups: Older people, pregnant women, the chronically ill and small children should be assessed early.
• Prevention: Handwashing, ventilating, flu vaccination (haende-waschen-und-hygiene, impfungen-grundlagen).
• Note: Not a diagnosis; when in doubt seek medical advice.