Feeling sick these days can be worrying. Is it just a cold? Could it be the flu? Or, is it something more concerning like COVID-19? Maybe it’s just allergies. The symptoms of these illnesses can often overlap, making it tough to figure out exactly what’s wrong. In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences to help you identify what might be causing your symptoms and why it’s important to know.
(This information is based on guidance from the National Institutes of Health.)
Flu vs. COVID-19: What’s the Difference?
Both the flu and COVID-19 are caused by viruses that spread in similar ways. They are both transmitted through tiny droplets from your nose or mouth when you sneeze, cough, or even talk. This means you can spread the virus to others without even knowing you’re sick. However, there are some important differences between the two:
- The influenza virus causes flu, while the SARS-CoV-2 virus causes COVID-19.
- Symptoms of both can include fever, cough, headaches, and body aches.
- COVID-19 symptoms, however, may take longer to show up—usually around 5 days after infection, but it can range from 2 to 14 days. The flu, on the other hand, typically appears 1 to 4 days after infection.
- A unique symptom of COVID-19 is the loss of taste or smell, though not everyone will experience this.
Since these illnesses can have very similar symptoms, the only way to know for sure if you have COVID-19 or the flu is by getting tested. You can find COVID-19 tests at many pharmacies or health centers, and your doctor can also test for the flu.
Could It Be a Cold or Allergies?
Colds, like the flu and COVID-19, are also caused by viruses and are contagious. However, colds tend to have milder symptoms:
- You might experience a runny nose, cough, congestion, or a sore throat.
- Fever and body aches are usually not present with a cold, unlike with the flu or COVID-19.
- Colds typically improve in just a few days, and there’s no specific treatment other than rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications.
Allergies, on the other hand, are not caused by viruses and aren’t contagious. They happen when your immune system reacts to things like pollen, pet dander, or dust. Allergy symptoms include a runny nose and sneezing, but there’s one big difference: allergies often cause itchy eyes, nose, or ears, and they stop once you’re no longer exposed to the allergen.
Winter Brings a Mix of Viruses
Winter is the peak season for cold and flu viruses because people spend more time indoors. Cold weather helps these viruses survive and spread more quickly. Experts are concerned that flu and COVID-19 cases will increase during the winter months and may overlap, making it even harder to figure out what’s making you sick.
Luckily, if you have the flu, your doctor can prescribe antiviral medications to help shorten the illness. Treatments like Redeliver are available for COVID-19. However, there are no proven complementary therapies to treat either the flu or COVID-19.
Staying Healthy: What You Can Do
One of the best ways to protect yourself is by getting vaccinated. Both the flu vaccine and the COVID-19 vaccine are safe, effective, and widely available. These vaccines help protect you and reduce the spread of these viruses to others.
- The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone six months and older and is updated each year to protect against the most common flu strains.
- The COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for everyone five years and older.
In addition to vaccines, wearing masks and practicing social distancing are effective ways to prevent the spread of these viruses, especially in crowded indoor spaces.
With cold, flu, COVID-19, and allergies all having overlapping symptoms, it can be tricky to know what’s making you sick. The best way to know is by getting tested, especially if you suspect you have the flu or COVID-19. And remember, staying up-to-date on your vaccines and following health guidelines will go a long way in keeping you and your loved ones safe.
For more tips and guidance, contact Anagail Care Services. We’re here to provide Healthcare Excellence, Diverse Services for all your health needs. #AnagailCares #AnagailCareServices