What common symptoms are associated with influenza?

The presence of a cough and sore throat is commonly associated with influenza, which is a viral respiratory illness. During an influenza infection, the virus can cause inflammation and irritation in the respiratory tract, leading to these symptoms. Coughing can be persistent and may produce phlegm, while a sore throat results from the body's immune response to the infection and can be exacerbated by coughing.

Influenza typically manifests with additional symptoms such as fever, body aches, chills, fatigue, and sometimes headaches, which further differentiate it from other illnesses.

High blood pressure is not a common symptom of influenza as it is more of a chronic condition not directly related to the flu. Skin rashes are also not typical indicators of influenza; they are more often associated with other types of viral infections or allergic reactions. Lastly, while joint pain can be a part of the flu experience, it is not limited to joints only and does not encompass the broader range of respiratory symptoms that are characteristic of influenza.