Does the flu cause a higher fever than a regular cold?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

The flu typically causes a higher fever than a common cold. Flu fevers often range from 100°F to 104°F and come on suddenly, while colds rarely produce a fever in adults, and when they do, it's usually mild. Along with high fever, the flu often brings body aches, chills, fatigue, and headache—symptoms that are uncommon or much milder with a cold.

Because flu and cold symptoms can overlap, and other conditions (like COVID-19 or strep throat) can mimic them, it's worth getting clarity on what you're actually dealing with. A free, instant, online symptom check can help you identify likely causes based on your specific symptoms and guide your next steps—whether that's rest at home, seeing a doctor, or seeking urgent care. It takes just a few minutes and could save you time, worry, and unnecessary trips to the clinic.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

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Explanation

The flu and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses but are caused by different viruses. According to the references, one of the key differences between the flu and a common cold is the severity of the symptoms.

Fever

Flu: Often causes a high fever, typically between 100°F and 104°F.
Cold: Usually causes a mild fever or none at all.

Other Symptoms

Flu: Symptoms like body aches, fatigue, and chills are more intense.
Cold: Symptoms are milder and often include a runny or stuffy nose.

In conclusion, while both the flu and the common cold can make you feel unwell, the flu is more likely to cause a higher fever and more severe symptoms. If you're experiencing respiratory symptoms and want to better understand what might be causing them, try our free AI symptom checker for personalized insights.

(References)

Murray EL, Khagayi S, Ope M, Bigogo G, Ochola R, Muthoka P, et al. (2013). What are the most sensitive and specific sign and symptom .... Epidemiology and infection, 22417876.
Montalto NJ. (2003). An office-based approach to influenza: clinical diagnosis .... American family physician, 12537174.
Abdullahi H, Elnahas A, & Konje JC. (2021). Seasonal influenza during pregnancy. European journal of obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive biology, 33476926.

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