Is It a Cold or the Flu?
We know it can be tough to tell what’s making your little one feel sick, so we’re breaking it down for you. Joelle Donofrio Odmann, MD, a Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego emergency medicine physician, walks us through the key symptoms of both illnesses and shares how to keep your kiddos comfortable and cared for.
The Common Cold
Colds are incredibly common, especially this time of year. While they can leave your child feeling crummy, they’re usually mild and improve with simple, supportive care.
Common cold symptoms
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
- Mild cough
- Low-grade fever (sometimes)
How to help your child feel better
The good news: time is your biggest ally.
- Hydration is essential to help thin mucus and prevent dehydration.
- Rest allows the body to fight off the virus.
- Honey (for children over age 1) can soothe a sore throat and calm a cough.
Colds usually resolve on their own, but use our Symptom Checker if you’re unsure whether to seek care.
The Flu
The flu tends to make kids look and feel much worse than a cold. Parents often describe it as being “hit by a truck,” and with good reason.
Typical flu symptoms
- Sudden high fever
- Body aches
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Watery eyes and runny nose
- Cough
- Kids often look truly miserable
What to do if you suspect the flu
While most children recover with rest and fluids, some, especially those under age 2 or with underlying medical conditions, are at higher risk for complications. If you suspect the flu:
- Get tested early. Antiviral medications work best within the first 1–2 days.
- Watch for red flags in high-risk children or if symptoms worsen instead of improve.
Why the flu vaccine matters
The flu vaccine remains one of the strongest tools we have:
- Reduces flu illness by over 40%
- Reduces hospitalization by over 60%
- Reduces the chance of ICU admission by 75%
Those are some serious numbers and a powerful reason to keep your child protected each year.
When to Seek Care
Colds happen. The flu happens. But you don’t have to guess your next steps. Our Symptom Checker is quick, free and available 24/7 to help you figure out what to watch for and when to seek care.
No matter the illness, seek emergency help right away if your child:
- Is struggling to breathe
- Is unusually sleepy, difficult to wake or unresponsive
- Shows signs that scare you or feel “not right”
Paramedics are trained to respond to pediatric emergencies, and help is always available.