What is the difference between a cold and the flu?

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While both are respiratory illnesses, they are caused by different viruses. The flu (influenza) typically comes on suddenly with fever, body aches, extreme tiredness, and dry cough. A cold develops gradually and is milder, mainly causing a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, and sore throat. The flu can lead to serious complications like pneumonia, especially in older adults, young children, and people with chronic conditions. Flu can be prevented with an annual vaccine; there is no vaccine for the common cold.

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