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.