How to Tell the Difference Between a Cold and the Flu in Children

As a parent, it can be incredibly stressful to see your child sick, especially when symptoms overlap between different illnesses. Two of the most common illnesses in children are the common cold and influenza (the flu). While both are respiratory infections caused by viruses, they differ in severity, symptoms and treatment needs.

In this article, we’ll guide you through how to recognize the difference between a cold and the flu in children, what symptoms to watch for, and when to seek medical care.

Why It Matters to Know the Difference

Understanding whether your child has a cold or the flu helps you:

• Take the right steps at home

• Prevent the spread to others

• Know when it’s time to call the pediatrician

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), flu symptoms tend to come on quickly and can be more severe, while colds usually develop gradually and are milder.

What Is the Common Cold?

The common cold is usually caused by rhinoviruses and it’s one of the most frequent childhood illnesses. Children can catch up to 8–10 colds per year, especially if they attend daycare or school.

Typical Cold Symptoms:

• Gradual onset

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Sneezing

• Mild sore throat

• Low-grade fever (or no fever)

• Mild fatigue

• Occasional cough

Cold symptoms are usually mild and go away within 7–10 days.

What Is the Flu?

The flu is caused by the influenza virus and can be much more serious. It spreads quickly in schools and daycare settings, especially during the fall and winter.

Typical Flu Symptoms:

• Sudden onset

• High fever (above 38.5°C / 101.3°F)

• Chills and body aches

• Headache

• Persistent dry cough

• Extreme tiredness or weakness

• Sore throat

• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea (especially in children)

❗ The flu can lead to complications like pneumonia, especially in children under 5 years old.

Key Differences Between Cold and Flu in Children

When to See a Doctor

Call your pediatrician or seek medical attention if your child has:

• Fever over 39°C (102°F) lasting more than 3 days

• Trouble breathing or fast breathing

• Ear pain or drainage

• Signs of dehydration (dry lips, no tears, fewer wet diapers)

• Unusual sleepiness or irritability

• Pre-existing medical conditions (e.g., asthma, heart disease)

In doubt? It’s always safer to call your child’s doctor, especially for infants under 3 months.

Home Care Tips

For a Cold:

• Keep your child hydrated

• Use saline drops and a humidifier

• Offer rest and comfort

• No antibiotics — they won’t help

For the Flu:

• Ensure bed rest and fluids

• Use fever-reducing medicine if needed (consult your doctor)

• Monitor closely for worsening symptoms

• Antiviral medications may be prescribed within 48 hours of symptoms

How to Prevent Colds and Flu in Kids

• Handwashing: Teach kids to wash hands often with soap

• Avoid touching face: Especially nose, eyes and mouth

• Vaccination: Annual flu shots are highly recommended

• Disinfect surfaces: Especially toys, doorknobs and shared items

• Keep sick kids home: From school or daycare

Final Thoughts

While colds and the flu may seem similar, they’re different in both severity and treatment approach. Knowing what to look for can help you act early, provide the right care and avoid complications.

Always trust your instincts and your pediatrician, when it comes to your child’s health.

References

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/influenza-(seasonal)

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/common-cold/symptoms-causes/syc-20351605

https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/coldflu.html?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/coldflu.htm