Is it the common cold or could it be something more serious? Learn cold and flu facts and discover tips on how to stop an illness in its tracks from the experts at UPMC.

Find information on prevention, healing, and treating everything from the common cold to the influenza virus. 

Seasonal influenza and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses with overlapping symptoms. These illnesses, however, are caused by different viruses and frequently vary in severity.

Coughs, colds, sore throat and flu affect each of us at some time or another. They are caused by infections with bacteria and viruses. It can be difficult to determine whether you have the cold or the flu, but understanding your symptoms can help you find the right treatment. You can help prevent the spread of disease during cold and flu season and the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Flu symptoms tend to be more severe than cold symptoms, and they may come on faster. In severe cases, the flu can lead to hospitalization and even death, particularly among young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. When it comes to the flu, the most effective way to prevent illness is by receiving your annual flu shot. Flu shots are safe, widely used, and critical to preventing the flu and severe flu symptoms. From articles to guides and videos, UPMC HealthBeat has you covered.

Topics cover when you should see a doctor for a cold and why getting the flu shot is more important than ever.