Dhaka, Oct. 15 -- As flu season gets under way, doctors are urging people to learn how to distinguish between a common cold and influenza -- two illnesses that are often confused but carry very different risks, according to a report by The Independent.

Early data from the UK Health Security Agency shows hospital admissions in September have already outpaced the same period over the last four years, with 18- to 24-year-olds driving the spike.

While both illnesses spread through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated surfaces, their symptoms set them apart.

A cold typically brings a runny nose, sore throat and mild fatigue, developing gradually over a day or two. Flu, by contrast, strikes suddenly -- with high fever, severe e...