Both the influenza virus and the common cold are categorized into respiratory tract infections as they both start off in the nose, throat, and sinuses; however, from there, they differ greatly.   The common cold’s symptoms often begin to build up over a 48-hour period, this is when you will begin to notice symptoms of a runny nose, stuffy nose, sneezing, congestion, watery eyes, coughing. These symptoms typically last from around 3 to 10 days, some may be a bit longer.   The influenza virus symptoms are faster to come on, and usually, the first few symptoms that anyone notices when they have contracted the influenza virus is a fever which is commonly followed by chills. Often these symptoms are followed up by aches and pain throughout the body, weakness, and fatigue. Influenza virus symptoms often last several days or few hours each day and will continue for as long as a week, some symptoms may hold on longer and linger for up to three weeks after the first onset.