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In the autumn-winter period, respiratory infections spread especially actively, and a question often arises: is it influenza or ARVI? Despite the similarity of manifestations, the course of diseases, the risk of complications, and the approach to treatment can differ significantly. That is why it is important to understand how to distinguish influenza and ARVI in order to start the correct therapy in a timely manner.

In this article, we will consider in detail what the difference between influenza and ARVI is, how to properly assess the condition at home, and in which situations you should not delay seeking medical attention.

What are influenza and ARVI

ARVI is a generalized name for a large group of acute respiratory viral infections that affect the mucous membrane of the nose, throat, larynx, and bronchi. They can be caused by various viruses: rhinoviruses, adenoviruses, parainfluenza viruses, respiratory syncytial virus, and others. The disease usually develops gradually and in most cases has a relatively mild course.

Influenza is a separate infection caused by influenza viruses type A or B. It is characterized by a more pronounced overall impact on the body, a rapid onset, and a high risk of complications, especially in older people, children, pregnant women, and patients with chronic diseases.

How influenza differs from ARVI

The main difference between influenza and ARVI lies in how a person feels and how quickly the illness develops. In most cases of ARVI, the infection predominantly affects the upper respiratory tract — the nose, throat, and sometimes the bronchi. Therefore, runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, and cough come to the fore. The general condition usually worsens moderately.

Influenza acts differently. It often starts suddenly and immediately causes severe weakness, chills, high fever, headache, and body aches. A person can literally “become bedridden” within a few hours. A runny nose and sore throat may be less pronounced than with a typical viral infection.

ARVI and influenza — differences: in the first case, local symptoms from the nose and throat predominate, whereas in the second case, pronounced intoxication of the body and a sharp deterioration in well-being are characteristic.  

Differences in onset and temperature

One of the most noticeable differences is the onset of the disease. ARVI usually develops gradually: first, discomfort in the throat, nasal congestion, and mild weakness appear. The temperature may rise moderately or remain within 37.5–38 °C.

Influenza starts suddenly. A person can clearly name the hour when they felt unwell. The temperature quickly rises to 38.5–40 °C, chills, severe weakness, and headache appear. Such a sharp start is often a key sign.

Comparison of influenza and ARVI symptoms

If evaluating symptoms of influenza and ARVI, it is important to pay attention to their intensity and combination.

 Signs of ARVI and influenza:

Sign

ARVI

Influenza

Onset of illness

Gradual, symptoms increase over 1–2 days

Sudden, sharp deterioration within a few hours

Temperature

More often 37.5–38 °C

Often 38.5–40 °C

Runny nose and nasal congestion

Pronounced from the first days

May be mild or appear later

Sore throat

A common symptom at the beginning

May occur, but does not always dominate

Cough

Moderate, appears early

Dry, exhausting, more often from day 2–3

Headache

Moderate or absent

Pronounced, intense

Body aches

Slight or moderate

Severe

General weakness

Moderate

Pronounced

 

Influenza and ARVI: treatment and prevention

The approach to therapy depends on the severity of the condition, the patient’s age, and the presence of comorbidities. It is important to remember that most respiratory infections are viral in nature, so antibiotics are used only in the presence of bacterial complications and exclusively as prescribed by a doctor.

In the case of an uncomplicated course, ARVI treatment involves symptomatic support of the body. Key recommendations include:

  • a gentle or bed rest regimen in the first days of illness;
  • adequate fluid intake to prevent dehydration;
  • regular ventilation of the room;
  • use of antipyretics at temperatures above 38–38.5 °C;
  • use of saline solutions to moisturize the nasal mucosa;
  • symptomatic medications to relieve sore throat and cough.

With influenza, the course of the disease may be more severe than with a typical viral infection. The disease is often accompanied by high fever, severe chills, pronounced weakness, and body aches. In some people, this disease can cause complications affecting the lungs and heart or exacerbate chronic illnesses.

Usually influenza treatment includes:

  • antiviral drugs that are prescribed by a doctor within the first 48 hours after symptom onset;
  • antipyretics for high temperature;
  • rehydration (drinking a sufficient amount of fluids);
  • if complications develop — additional drug treatment.

Regardless of the diagnosis, you should carefully monitor your well-being. Treatment of influenza and ARVI should be aimed not only at reducing temperature, but also at supporting the body and preventing complications.

As for prevention, the most effective method of prevention is vaccination. Annual influenza vaccination for adults is recommended for older people, patients with chronic diseases, and everyone who seeks to reduce the risk of a severe course of infection.

In addition to vaccination, prevention of ARVI and influenza includes:

  • regular handwashing or use of an antiseptic;
  • avoiding close contact with people with signs of infection;
  • using a mask during periods of high incidence;
  • maintaining optimal indoor air humidity;
  • adequate sleep and a balanced diet;
  • self-isolation when the first symptoms appear.

A comprehensive approach to prevention can significantly reduce the risk of infection and the development of complications during the season of increased incidence.

When you should seek medical attention immediately

In most cases, these diseases may resolve without complications provided there is proper treatment and monitoring of the condition. However, there are symptoms that indicate a possible severe course or the development of complications and require urgent medical attention.

You should seek medical attention immediately if the following appear:

  • a temperature above 39 °C that does not decrease or rises again after a short-term improvement;
  • pronounced shortness of breath or a feeling of lack of air;
  • pain or pressure in the chest;
  • severe headache with nausea or vomiting;
  • confusion, sudden drowsiness;
  • seizures;
  • a sharp deterioration on days 3–5 of the illness.

Older people, patients with chronic cardiovascular, pulmonary, or endocrine diseases, pregnant women, and parents of young children should be especially attentive. In these groups, the risk of complications is higher, so you should not delay a consultation.

If there are doubts about the condition or well-being deteriorates sharply, it is better not to wait but to seek medical attention. Timely assessment of symptoms helps prevent the development of dangerous consequences.

The information in the article is provided for informational purposes and is not a guide to self-diagnosis and treatment. If symptoms of illness appear, you should consult a doctor. 

Sources:

US National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus – Flu)

National Institutes of Health (National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases – Influenza)

PubMed (Influenza vs. Common Cold – Clinical Review Article)