1 of 2 / Common Cold
View AllWhat Is a Cold?
A cold begins when a virus attaches to the lining of your nose or throat.
What's Causing My Cold?
Cold viruses have a lot in common, but each type has its own style, too.
Is It a Common Cold or Allergies?
It's a question that puzzles lots of folks when symptoms hit: Is all that coughing and sneezing from a cold or hay fever?
What Puts You at Risk for the Common Cold?
2 of 2 / Flu (Influenza)
View AllDo You Have a Cold or Flu?
Do you feel under the weather and wonder if you're sick with the flu or a cold?
Flu Test: How to Find the Virus
A doctor can usually tell if you have the flu based on your symptoms, especially if it’s during peak season.
Bird Flu (H5N1)
Bird flu, or avian influenza, is a viral infection spread from bird to bird. The most common kind is the H5N1 strain.
Swine Flu (H1N1)
While swine flu isn't as scary as it seemed a few years ago, it's still important to protect yourself from getting it.
Suggested Reads about Cold and Flu
Immune-Boosting Foods
See foods that may help build your immune system to help you stay healthy and fight illness. WebMD shows you nutrient and antioxidant-rich fruits, vegetables, and more.
How Long Am I Contagious?
You don’t want to pass on germs when you’re feeling sick. But it could happen if you don’t know how long you’re contagious. Find out how long you can pass certain illnesses on to other people.
Looking Good When You're Feeling Bad
WebMD shows you how you can still look great even when you're sniffling and sneezing. Take care of runny eyes, dry skin, and a red nose with these tips.
Tips for Calming Your Cough
Can't stop coughing? WebMD explores which home cough remedies and other cough treatments work. And find out when it's time to see a doctor for your cough.
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