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The University Wellness Center recommends checking for these symptoms to determine if you have a cold or the flu. This information is adapted from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
Signs and Symptoms |
Flu |
Cold |
| Onset | Sudden | Gradual |
| Fever | High (over 101 F lasting 3-4 days) | Rare |
| Cough | Dry; can be severe | Hacking |
| Headache | Prominent | Rare |
| Myalgia (muscle aches) | Usual; often severe | Slight |
| Tiredness/Weakness | Can last 2-3 weeks | Very mild |
| Extreme Exhaustion | Early and prominent | Never |
| Chest Discomfort | Common | Mild to moderate |
| Stuffy Nose | Sometimes | Common |
| Sneezing | Sometimes | Usual |
| Sore Throat | Sometimes | Common |
The University Wellness Center is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Please call if you have questions or to set up an appointment to see a nurse practitioner or the physician. We care about you and we want you to stay healthy this cold and flu season.