Have you got a cold – or the flu?

The number of flu cases across the country is expected to rise this week as people return to work after their Christmas break and schools open up for the new term. But what's the difference between the flu and a cold? Both infections are caused by viruses; colds affect the upper respiratory tract – the eyes, nose and throat – and symptoms come on gradually and tend not to include aches or a fever, while flu symptoms are more severe and develop at a quicker rate. The NHS Choices website says people with flu will experience one or more of these symptoms: • A sudden fever (a temperature of 38°C/100.4°F or above) • A dry, chesty cough • Headache • Tiredness • Chills • Aching muscles • Limb or joint pain • Diarrhoea or stomach upset • Sore throat • Runny or blocked nose • Sneezing • Loss of appetite • Difficulty sleeping Babies and young children with flu may also appear drowsy, unresponsive and floppy. In some cases, their symptoms will include a bout – or several – of vomiting. According to the Health Protection Agency : "Influenza makes people feel worse than an ordinary cold. For most people, influenza infection is just a nasty experience, but for some it can lead to illnesses that are more serious." Symptoms of the flu tend to develop two or three days after coming into contact with the virus, says the HPA, and adults are considered infectious from the first appearance of their symptoms for up to five days. In children, this period may be longer. For most people, the HPA recommends treating flu with rest, drinking plenty of fluids and taking painkillers such as paracetamol. The over-65s and those in at-risk groups, such as people with heart or lung diseases, are advised to see their GP and may be offered antiviral medicines. Resting and drinking plenty of fluids are also recommended by NHS Choices as the best ways of countering the common cold, along with eating healthily – although children will often lose their appetite when suffering with a cold. If you're still unsure whether you've got a cold or the flu or would like some treatment advice, try the NHS Direct flu and colds symptom checker .