With fall blowing in, particularly when wandering the trails of Evergreen Nature Preserve, the season brings a lot of rain and cooler temperatures. Along with it comes the familiar coughs, sneezes and fatigue that many of us experience. This weather can contribute to the spread of colds and flu, so many of us experience symptoms that make us wonder: “Do I have COVID-19, the flu, or just a common cold?”

While these illnesses share some symptoms, they also have distinct differences that can help you identify which one you might be dealing with. Understanding these differences is crucial for appropriate treatment and to prevent spreading the illness to others.

Visit AFC Urgent Care Monroe Rd for COVID-19, flu, and cold testing and treatment.

Common Symptoms

First, let’s look at the common symptoms of COVID-19, the flu, and the common cold:

• COVID-19: Symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle or body aches, sore throat, congestion, nausea or vomiting.
• Flu: Symptoms are similar to COVID-19 and include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
• Common Cold: Symptoms are generally milder and include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, congestion, slight body aches, mild headache, sneezing, and a low-grade fever (rare).

Onset of Symptoms

The timeline for when symptoms start can offer a way to differentiate between these conditions:

• COVID-19: Symptoms typically appear 2 to 14 days after exposure. The progression can be slow, with symptoms worsening over time.
• Flu: Symptoms usually come on suddenly, often within 1 to 4 days after. The flu hits quickly and severely.
• Common Cold: Symptoms generally develop gradually over a couple of days. Colds are usually milder and less sudden compared to the flu and COVID-19.

Key Differences between COVID, the Flu & a Cold

• Breathing Difficulties: Severe shortness of breath is more associated with COVID-19, especially in moderate to severe. While it can occur with the flu, it is typically less severe and less common in the common cold.
• Gastrointestinal Symptoms: COVID-19 and the flu can both cause gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, but these are more prevalent in children with the flu and less common in the common cold.

Testing and Diagnosis

If you’re uncertain whether your symptoms point to COVID-19, the flu, or a cold, getting tested is the smartest move. Rapid tests for both the flu and COVID-19 are easy to get at our clinic. We offer quick answers on the right treatment plan and whether isolation is required.

Prevention and Treatment

• COVID-19: AFC specializes in early intervention testing and treatment, which can significantly improve recovery and overall outcomes.
• Flu: Annual flu vaccination is available. Antiviral medications can reduce the severity and duration of the flu if taken early.
• Common Cold: There is no vaccine for the common cold, and treatment focuses on relieving symptoms. Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications can help manage your illness.

It can be difficult to tell the difference between COVID-19, the flu, and a common cold, as their symptoms often overlap. But by noting the differences in when symptoms start, how severe they are, and other specific signs, you can better identify the illness. If you’re ever unsure—especially with severe symptoms or if you’re at higher risk for complications—reach out to AFC and consider testing to confirm. Taking preventive actions, like getting vaccinated and maintaining good hygiene, can help protect you and those around you this season.

If you think you might be experiencing COVID, flu or cold symptoms, visit AFC Urgent Care Monroe Rd for a rapid flu test or COVID test.