The main pathogens of the common cold are rhinovirus, adenovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, etc.

The main pathogens of influenza virus are influenza A virus, influenza B virus, influenza C virus, etc.

In clinical symptoms, the common cold causes more severe upper respiratory tract symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, and cough, while systemic symptoms such as general soreness, muscle pain, cough, decreased appetite, and nausea and diarrhea are milder.

The flu virus has more severe systemic symptoms such as sore throat, body aches, nausea, diarrhea, and decreased appetite, but both the common cold and flu can be transmitted.

The characteristics of influenza generally refer to the influenza virus, which is an upper respiratory infectious disease caused by influenza viruses A, B, and C. Influenza is seasonal, and its incidence rate is relatively high in winter and spring. Highly contagious, mainly transmitted through respiratory droplets, the symptoms of influenza are much more severe than those of the common cold. In general, patients with high fever can have a body temperature as high as 39 to 40 ℃, and the fever can last for 3 to 7 days. If accompanied by severe pneumonia, it may be life-threatening. Therefore, after being diagnosed with influenza, it is necessary to take antiviral drugs as soon as possible. The comparative methods for preventing influenza are vaccination, strengthening exercise, enhancing nutrition, and strengthening immunity.

The common cold refers to acute inflammation of the nasal mucosa caused by viral infection, usually affecting the paranasal sinuses or throat, and is highly contagious. Various deep breathing viruses can cause this disease, including rhinovirus, adenovirus, coronavirus, influenza virus, and parainfluenza virus. A decrease in overall resistance in cold weather can be a trigger for this disease. Usually, one can pay attention to keeping warm and receive a flu vaccine to prevent catching a cold.

In fact, regardless of the type of cold, timely treatment is necessary to effectively alleviate the symptoms of physical discomfort. Some people have a strong immune system and can be cured in about 7 days without taking any medication after catching a cold.