Learn about colds and flu

You're sneezing, coughing, aching, and tired. Having a cold or the flu is miserable! But you can treat the symptoms. Cold symptoms tend to get worse over a few days. Flu symptoms are more severe than cold symptoms and come on faster. For either illness, it is important to rest and drink plenty of fluids to feel better.

Cold and flu viruses spread easily in the late fall and winter. Wash your hands often to protect yourself from catching and spreading a cold or the flu. You can lower your risk of catching the flu by getting the flu vaccine every year. If you do catch a cold or the flu, try to stay away from others to avoid spreading the disease.

Get the information you need in our cold and flu topics, such as:

• Colds.
• Influenza (Seasonal Flu).
• Sore Throat.
• Fever, Age 12 and Older.
• Flu Vaccines: Should I Get a Flu Vaccine?
• Flu: Should I Take Antiviral Medicine?