Cold versus the Flu - Here's the difference

During the fall and winter months colds and the flu (influenza) can affect many people. Colds are not as severe as the flu. Complications from the flu can be life threatening for the elderly and for people with chronic illnesses. Children aged 6-23 months are at greater risk for complications and hospitalization because of th flu.

So how do you know if you have a cold or the flu? Check the chart below for some of the major differences between the two illnesses: