Learn the difference between COVID-19, colds, and the flu. Visit your local urgent care 7 days a week for expert care and advice. Walk-ins welcome!

As the fall season in Mooresville, NC, brings popular events like the annual Race City Festival and outdoor events at Lake Norman, it’s more important than ever to understand the differences between COVID-19, colds, and the flu. With so many people enjoying the crisp autumn weather and attending these events, knowing how to spot the symptoms of each illness is key to keeping the community healthy. Staying informed and practicing preventive measures like wearing masks in crowded spaces or staying home when feeling unwell can make all the difference in avoiding the spread of these respiratory illnesses.

Visit AFC Urgent Care Mooresville today.

Recognizing the Symptoms of COVID-19, Flu, and Colds

With so many overlapping symptoms, it can be tricky to tell which illness you might have. Here’s what to look out for:

COVID-19 Symptoms

COVID-19 can present a wide variety of symptoms, making it difficult to identify. The most reported signs include:

• Fever or chills: A fever is common, but not everyone will experience it.
• Cough: Often dry, this is one of the hallmark symptoms of COVID-19.
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing: This can range from mild to severe.
• Fatigue: Many people feel extreme tiredness that can last even after other symptoms have eased.
• Muscle or body aches: These generalized aches can be particularly uncomfortable.
• Sore throat and congestion: Although often associated with colds, these can occur in COVID-19 as well.
• Gastrointestinal symptoms: Some individuals experience nausea, vomiting, or even diarrhea.

COVID-19 symptoms may appear anywhere from 2 to 14 days after exposure, which can complicate identifying when and where you might have gotten sick.

Flu Symptoms

The flu tends to come on quickly and hit harder than a cold. Common flu symptoms include:

• Fever or chills: Flu typically brings a higher fever compared to a cold.
• Sore throat and cough: These can feel similar to COVID-19 symptoms.
• Body aches and headaches: The flu often causes intense aches and severe headaches, making you feel wiped out.
• Fatigue: Extreme tiredness is a key feature of the flu, leaving you feeling drained.
• Nausea or diarrhea: While more common in children, some adults may experience gastrointestinal symptoms with the flu.

Flu symptoms usually emerge within 1 to 4 days after exposure and can lead to more severe complications, especially for those at higher risk.

Cold Symptoms

Colds are generally milder and tend to develop more gradually. Common symptoms include:

• Runny or stuffy nose: This is often one of the first signs.
• Sore throat and sneezing: A sore throat can come alongside frequent sneezing.
• Cough and congestion: While these can get more pronounced as the cold progresses, they are usually milder than flu or COVID-19 symptoms.
• Mild body aches and headaches: These are usually not severe.
• Low-grade fever: Rare with colds but possible, though typically mild.

Colds are less likely to cause serious complications and can usually be managed at home with rest and hydration.

Why It’s Important to Know the Difference

Being able to tell whether you have COVID-19, the flu, or a cold is crucial, especially during Mooresville’s busy fall season when many people are attending events and gatherings. Understanding your symptoms can help you decide whether to stay home, seek testing, or visit your local urgent care for treatment. If you’re uncertain or experiencing severe symptoms, err on the side of caution and consult a healthcare professional.

By staying informed and taking preventive steps, you can help protect yourself and your community during this busy time of year. If you’re unsure about your symptoms, visit AFC Urgent Care Mooresville for proper diagnosis and care.