Is it a Cold, the Flu, or a Stomach Virus?
At Medical City Healthcare, we want you to stay healthy year-round. Read about the common cold, seasonal flu and stomach virus, as well as helpful treatments and prevention tips.
Comparison between causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention for a cold, the flu, and a stomach virus.
| Common Cold | Seasonal Flu | Stomach Virus | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cause | Different viruses | Influenza A or B virus | Virus or bacteria |
| Sore throat | Common | Sometimes | No |
| Stuffy/runny nose | Common | Sometimes | No |
| Cough | Sometimes | Usually | No |
| Chills/pains/aches | Uncommon | Yes | Common |
| Headache | Uncommon | Yes | Sometimes |
| Fever | Rare | Yes (100-102 degrees fahrenheit) | Sometimes |
| Extreme fatigue | Uncommon | Yes | Sometimes |
| Vomitting/diarrhea | No | Uncommon (more likely in kids) | Usually |
| Treatment | Rest, hydrate, and consider using over the counter (OTC) drugs to ease symptoms. | Rest, hydrate and consider using OTC drugs to ease symptoms. | Rest and hydrate. |
| Prevention | Wash hands. Avoid contact with sick people. | Get yearly flu shot. Wash hands. Avoid contact with sick people. | Wash hands. Wsah fruits/veggies. Cook seafood fully. |