Cough, Cold & Flu

What is it?

The Common Cold

The common cold is a viral infection of the lining of the nose, throat and chest. It is usually mild, with symptoms lasting about 1 week or less.

Most colds occur during the fall and winter when people tend to spend more time indoors, making it easier for viruses to spread from person to person. Colds are also more common in winter because viruses survive better in the low humidity environment of Winter. In addition, cold weather dries out the nasal passages, making the sinuses vulnerable to viral infections. See also Different Types.

Influenza ("the flu")

Influenza is a highly contagious infection of the lower respiratory tract (throat and chest) that usually lasts from 5 to 10 days. The flu virus is spread by coughing and sneezing. Most people who get the flu will not become seriously ill, although the flu can progress to pneumonia, hospitalization, and even death in some people. See also Different Types.