What are the differences between H1N1 flu symptoms and common cold symptoms?
Disease description:
Recently is the peak period for H1N1 influenza, but I've never clearly understood the difference between this illness and the common cold. So I'd like to ask, what are the differences between the symptoms of H1N1 flu and the common cold?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lu Haiying
In general, the symptoms of H1N1 influenza differ from those of the common cold. The main differences lie in symptom severity: H1N1 typically causes more prominent fever that usually lasts 3–5 days, has a longer disease course, and is more contagious. Common symptoms of H1N1 include high fever, cough, sore throat, and fatigue. In contrast, the primary symptoms of the common cold are nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat, and cough, with relatively low transmissibility. Additionally, H1N1 may cause systemic symptoms such as muscle aches, fever, and general malaise, which are generally milder in the common cold. If these symptoms occur, prompt medical attention is recommended.
