Sick season is rapidly approaching in Hixson, affecting all members of the family. When your child starts showing signs of a respiratory illness, it can be difficult to determine what they’re dealing with. Is it just a common cold, or something more severe like the flu or COVID-19? Many symptoms overlap among these illnesses, which can make it hard for parents to know when to treat at home and when to seek medical help.

Learn about the key differences between the flu, common cold, and COVID-19 in children to help you understand which illness your child may have and what steps to take next.

Visit AFC Hixson today.

The Common Cold

The common cold is one of the most frequent respiratory illnesses children experience, especially as they return to school or daycare. Caused by a variety of viruses, including rhinoviruses, colds are typically mild and often resolve on their own within a week.

Common cold symptoms in children include:

• Runny or stuffy nose: This is often one of the first signs of a cold, with clear or yellowish mucus.
• Sneezing: Frequent sneezing is common with colds.
• Sore throat: Your child may complain of a scratchy or sore throat, especially in the early stages.
• Cough: Usually mild, a cold-related cough may last a few days.
• Mild fatigue: Your child may feel tired, but colds rarely cause the extreme exhaustion seen with the flu or COVID.
• Low-grade fever: While not always present, children may develop a mild fever.

Unlike the flu or COVID-19, colds rarely cause severe body aches or high fevers. Over-the-counter medications can help relieve symptoms, but rest and fluids are the best remedies. Colds are generally not cause for concern unless your child has a weakened immune system or symptoms worsen over time.

Recognizing the Flu

Seasonal influenza, commonly known as the flu, can cause more severe symptoms than the common cold. The flu spreads quickly, especially during colder months when children are in close contact at school or other indoor activities.

Flu symptoms in children typically include:

• Fever: High fevers (often above 101°F) are common with the flu and can last for several days.
• Body aches: Children may complain of sore muscles and body aches, often more intense than those experienced with a cold.
• Fatigue: Extreme tiredness is a hallmark of the flu. Your child may feel weak and may need to rest more than usual.
• Dry cough: Flu-related coughs tend to be dry and persistent, accompanied by a sore throat.
• Runny or stuffy nose: Although less common than with colds, some children with the flu may still experience nasal congestion.
• Headaches: Headaches are more common with the flu than with colds.
• Chills and sweating: Alternating between feeling very cold and breaking out in sweats is a classic flu symptom.

Unlike colds, which tend to come on gradually, flu symptoms appear suddenly. If your child shows these symptoms, it’s essential to keep them home from school and allow plenty of rest and fluids. Most children recover within a week, but if symptoms worsen or your child is at high risk (e.g., has asthma or other underlying conditions), seek medical advice promptly.

Flu vaccines are one of the most effective ways to protect your child from influenza. Even if they contract the flu after vaccination, symptoms tend to be milder.

Identifying COVID-19

COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has become a major concern for parents since its emergence. Although children generally experience milder cases of COVID-19 than adults, it’s still crucial to recognize the signs and prevent the spread to others.

Common COVID-19 symptoms in children include:

• Fever: Like the flu, COVID-19 often presents with a high fever, though it can also be mild.
• Cough: This is usually a dry, persistent cough similar to that of the flu.
• Fatigue: While fatigue can be present, it’s often less pronounced in children than in adults.
• Shortness of breath: Though rare in mild cases, severe COVID-19 infections can cause breathing difficulties, which should be addressed immediately.
• Headaches and muscle aches: These can also occur but tend to be less common in children than in adults.
• Diarrhea and vomiting: Some children with COVID-19 may experience gastrointestinal symptoms, which are uncommon with colds or the flu.

COVID-19 symptoms can appear anywhere from two to 14 days after exposure, and they can range from mild to severe. If you suspect your child may have COVID-19, it’s essential to get them tested and follow isolation guidelines to prevent the virus from spreading. Most cases can be managed at home with rest and fluids, but seek medical attention if your child has trouble breathing, persistent chest pain, or other concerning symptoms.

When to Seek Medical Help

While most children recover from colds, the flu, and COVID-19 without needing medical intervention, it’s important to know when to seek professional care. Bring your child to our clinic if they exhibit any of the following symptoms:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Persistent high fever that doesn’t respond to medication
• Severe fatigue or lethargy
• Dehydration (few wet diapers or little urination)
• Chest pain or pressure
• Confusion or inability to stay awake

We provide testing for COVID-19 and flu, as well as treatments to help manage symptoms.

Determining whether your child has a cold, the flu, or COVID-19 can be tricky, especially with overlapping symptoms. However, by paying attention to the specific signs and monitoring their condition, you can get a better sense of what illness they may be dealing with. Remember, for mild cases of colds and flu, rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications can help. For more serious cases or if you suspect COVID-19, visit AFC Hixson for proper diagnosis and treatment. Get your family the help they need so they can keep enjoying the beauty of Hixson this fall.