You've got a sore throat, a mild cough, a runny nose, and your body aches. Both of these viral infections have a lot in common. Even their symptoms are similar, which can make them difficult and confusing to diagnose.
Influenza is usually a more severe illness than the garden-variety cold.
Influenza Influenza is caused by a specific virus that typically strikes from late November through early March. It's also associated with severe body aches. But the hallmarks are the season and the abrupt onset. Type A is more serious, while Type B produces milder symptoms. Once the virus enters your body, you may be contagious for three to five days after symptoms first appear.