Cold vs Flu: How to Spot the Difference Quickly
Feeling a little bit of change in the weather and your health too? With the coming of the winter season, diseases such as sniffles, sore throats, and fevers come up. But how can you tell that all you have is the common cold or it is some other serious illness like the flu? At Premier Private GP, we mostly hear patients questioning on the issue of cold versus flu symptoms and whether they are supposed to make an appointment to get a flu jab to protect themselves.
Knowing the differences between a cold and flu, and learning when to seek medical advice can be a good choice to maintain good health.
Flu or Cold Symptoms? Here’s How to Tell
Know that:
- Colds get in slowly and are mostly experienced in the nose and the throat.
- Flu strikes suddenly and tends to take over your whole body.
Want to know more about cold or flu symptoms? Cold symptoms might leave you feeling bad for a few days but flu symptoms can leave you feeling pretty sick a few days to weeks.
Let’s do a simple breakdown:
| Symptom | Common Cold | Flu |
| Onset | Gradual | Sudden (within hours) |
| Fever | Rare, mild | High (38°C +), common |
| Fatigue | Mild | Severe, can last week |
| Cough | Hacking, mild | Dry, persistent, painful |
| Aches | Slight | Strong, body-wide |
| Nose | Runny/stuffy | Sometimes, but less prominent |
Then, as long as you are not convinced, consider the question: did I wake up feeling ill, or was it something that struck me right out of the blue? Flu is normally marked by sudden exhaustion and fever.
Cold, Flu, or Allergy?
One more issue that patients believe in is the differentiation between colds, flu, and allergies. Allergies will normally lead to itchy eyes, sneezing and congestion, but not fever or aches in the body. With such, there is a higher probability of it being viral (cold or flu).
Is It a Cold, the Flu, an RSV Infection, or COVID-19?
During winter, there is an overlap of diseases. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus): It is seen more in children, although adults may have it, as well. It is characterized by wheezing, coughing and difficulty breathing.
- COVID-19: Fevers, cough, loss of taste and smell, fatigue and gastrointestinal in some cases.
- Flu: Sudden fever, aches, exhaustion.
- Cold: Generally mild, no severe fever.
If you are unsure, book an appointment at Premier Private GP. We provide fast access to GP consultations and testing, helping you identify the cause quickly.
Learn more about COVID’19 here → NHS COVID-19 Symptoms Guide)
When Should You Worry?
Most colds clear within 7–10 days. Flu may last longer but should gradually improve. You should see a GP if you experience:
- Severe shortness of breath
- Chest pain or pressure
- High fever that doesn’t improve with rest and fluids
- Symptoms improving then worsening again (a sign of secondary infection)
- Dehydration or inability to eat/drink properly
At Premier Private GP, we offer same-day and out-of-hours appointments in Surrey, so you don’t have to wait to be seen.
Why Book a Flu Jab?
The best method of safeguarding against influenza is through a flu jab. It decreases the risk of being hospitalised and having serious illness, which is particularly relevant in the case of individuals older than 50, pregnant women, or otherwise with underlying health issues.
- One of the most common questions patients ask is; Is the flu jab free over 50s? Yes, anyone older than 50 on the NHS can have a free jab. But if you need it sooner or you do not qualify, you can make a private flu jab in the Premier Private GP.
- Another common question: “What to avoid after a flu shot?” Most people can continue their normal routine. We recommend avoiding heavy exercise and alcohol for 24 hours to give your body the best chance to respond to the vaccine.
If you’re searching for a “walk-in flu jab near me”, our Bagshot clinic offers quick, convenient appointments without the long NHS wait times.
Flu, Cold, and Prevention Tips
Beyond vaccination, you can protect yourself with simple steps:
- Wash your hands frequently
- Avoid close contact with anyone unwell
- Stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet
- Rest if you start to feel unwell
- Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing
Fast Access to Flu Protection at Premier Private GP
Whether you’re unsure about your symptoms or want to protect yourself with a flu jab, Premier Private GP offers same-day access, expert guidance, and peace of mind.
We provide:
- Walk-in and bookable flu jab appointments
- Same-day GP consultations for cold or flu symptoms
- Rapid testing for COVID-19 and RSV if required
- Preventive health advice for all ages
Book your private flu jab today and protect your health this winter.
1. What’s the difference between cold and influenza?
A common cold is typically very slow progressing with a runny nose, sore throat, some fatigue. Influenza (flu), however, strikes without warning, with high fever, pain throughout the body and extreme fatigue that may also extend in a span of weeks. Or, in case of doubt, a GP appointment can help to verify whether symptoms are those of flu or cold.
2. Why is the flu more common in winter than in other seasons?
Flu viruses mostly survive in cold, dry air. In winter, we also spend more time indoors so it makes it easier for the flu to spread.
3. What causes common cold or flu in children?
Both colds and flu are caused by viruses. Children are more prone because their immune systems are still developing, and they’re often in close contact with others at school or nursery.
4. How to cure a cold fast overnight?
There’s no instant cure. But yes, rest, fluids, and over-the-counter remedies can ease symptoms and the recovery process. If symptoms worsen or you suspect flu, it’s important to seek medical advice quickly.
