In winter, it is not difficult to see people with runny noses, sneezing, sore throats, headaches,&nbsp;or persistent fatigue. But is it just a common cold or really the flu?

According to data from the Hanoi Centre for Disease Control (CDC), in January 2025, the city recorded 820 cases of influenza, an increase of 51 cases (6%) compared to the same period in 2024 (769 cases). In 2024, the total number of influenza cases was 7,133, with no deaths. The disease appears year-round in 30/30 districts, towns, and cities, with an increasing trend from December to May of the following year.
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However, many people are still subjective because the flu has similar initial symptoms to a cold. So, how do we distinguish between the two diseases? <span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; text-align: justify; letter-spacing: 0px;">L'OFFICIEL Vietnam will help you answer this question to have the right treatment, reduce the risk of complications and recover faster.
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The difference between a cold and the flu

Colds are a common problem in the fall and winter and although not too serious, they still cause a lot of inconvenience. Symptoms are usually mild and do not last long, including nasal congestion, sore throat, sneezing and possibly a low fever (under 38&deg;C). Coughs caused by colds are usually productive and not too severe, rarely causing muscle aches or headaches; if any, they are only mild.
The common cold usually clears up on its own within a week and rarely leads to complications.
Influenza usually starts suddenly and can be very debilitating. High fever is the first sign, which can reach 39-40&deg;C, accompanied by chills, severe muscle aches, headaches and persistent fatigue. The cough associated with influenza is often dry and persistent, lasting throughout the course of the illness.
The illness usually lasts 5-7 days, but fatigue can persist longer. If not treated properly, the flu can lead to dangerous complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis or bacterial infections.

How to recognize cold and flu symptoms?

One of the important differences is the speed of symptom onset:
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li> Colds usually develop slowly, with mild symptoms that come on gradually.</li>
<li> Flu comes on suddenly &ndash; a healthy person might wake up in the morning with a high fever, body aches and feeling exhausted.</li>
</ul>
In addition, the level and duration of fever are also factors that help differentiate. If the fever is above 38&deg;C and lasts more than 2 days, it is likely the flu, not a cold.
Although colds are not dangerous, if not properly cared for, they can lead to sinusitis, otitis media or bronchitis. In particular, people with weak immune systems, such as the elderly, young children or people with chronic diseases, are at higher risk of complications.
Treatment for a cold is fairly straightforward and includes rest, plenty of fluids, and nasal saline sprays. If your congestion is severe, you can use decongestants, but be cautious. If your symptoms do not improve after a week or if they worsen, see your doctor, as you may have a bacterial infection that requires antibiotics.
Compared to a cold, the flu is more severe and can leave a person exhausted, unable to perform even simple activities. The flu is characterised by high fever, muscle aches, headaches and fatigue that lasts even after the fever has subsided.
With the flu, complete rest and medication to reduce fever and symptoms are essential. However, the flu can cause dangerous complications, especially in the elderly, children and those with chronic conditions, leading to pneumonia or secondary infections. If symptoms are severe or persistent, see a doctor immediately for a prescription for antiviral drugs or intensive treatment.

<ol>
<li style="text-align: left;"> Maintain personal hygiene</li>
</ol>
Wash your hands often with soap for at least 20 seconds and avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth to reduce the risk of infection. When in public places or around sick people, cover your mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and use hand sanitiser if you cannot wash your hands immediately.
<ol start="2" style="text-align: left;">
<li> Strengthen the immune system</li>
</ol>
A nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables and immune-boosting foods will help the body fight viruses. In particular, vitamin C found in oranges, kiwis, bell peppers and green leafy vegetables helps boost immunity and prevent infection.
<ol start="3" style="text-align: left;">
<li> Maintain proper exercise and rest</li>
</ol>
Regular exercise, even light exercise, helps the body stay healthy during the epidemic season. At the same time, getting enough sleep is also very important, because during sleep, the immune system is restored to fight against pathogens.
<ol start="4" style="text-align: left;">
<li> Flu vaccination</li>
</ol>
Flu vaccines help reduce the risk of severe illness and limit the spread of the virus, which is especially important for the elderly, young children, people with chronic illnesses and those with weakened immune systems. In addition, limiting contact with sick people is also an important measure to reduce the risk of infection.
Photo: Getty Images

Cold or Flu? A Winter Guide to Staying Well

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