Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Nowadays, when the COVID-19 pandemic still poses a serious threat, every respiratory infection causes us to worry.However, symptoms such as a runny nose, cough, fever or sore throat may have different sources.In this article, we will discuss how to distinguish between colds, flu, allergies and COVID-19.
How to distinguish a cold, flu and covid-19?
The common cold, flu and COVID-19 are viral infections that can cause similar symptoms.Here are some key differences that can help you tell them apart:
Fever
Flu and COVID-19 often cause a fever that can be much higher than a cold.If you have a fever above 38°C, pay special attention.
Cough and shortness of breath
COVID-19 can lead to a dry cough and shortness of breath, which are less typical of colds and flu.If you have difficulty breathing, consult a doctor immediately.
Loss of taste and smell
COVID-19 can cause a loss of sense of taste and smell, which is rare with colds and flu.If you notice this symptom, it is worth protecting yourself and getting tested for the virus.
How to distinguish an allergy from a viral infection?
Allergies and viral infections can also cause similar symptoms, but there are certain characteristics that help distinguish them:
Runny nose and sneezing
Runny nose and sneezing are common symptoms of allergies, especially seasonal ones.If you don’t have a fever or cough and the symptoms occur periodically, it may be an allergy.
Itchy and watery eyes
Eye symptoms such as itching and tearing are typical of allergies but are not typical of viral infections.
Ongoing condition
Allergies usually last for a longer period of time, while viral infections tend to go away after a few days or weeks.
Cold, flu, allergy or covid-19 – differences and similarities in symptoms
The table below summarizes the main differences and similarities between colds, flu, allergies and COVID-19:
| Symptom | Cold | Flu | Allergy | COVID-19 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fever | Rare | High | Rare | High |
| Cough | Wet | Strict | Lack | Raw or dry |
| runny nose | Frequent | Rare | Frequent | Rare |
| Itchy and watery eyes | Rare | Rare | Frequent | Rare |
| Ongoing condition | Several days | Several days | Periodically | It may be longer |
Your suggestions
If you suspect you may be infected with COVID-19 or suffer from a serious allergy, it is best to consult a doctor or get tested for the virus.It is also worth monitoring your symptoms and isolating yourself from others to prevent the potential spread of infection.
Recommended articles
If you want to learn more about the differences between colds, flu, allergies and COVID-19, we recommend reading the following articles:
- “COVID-19: How to protect yourself and what are the symptoms?”
- “Seasonal allergies: How to deal with them?”
- “Flu: Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention”
- “Colds and flu: How to distinguish and treat them?”
Remember that if you have any doubts about your health, it is always worth consulting a doctor or specialist.
This article aims to provide basic information on the differences between colds, flu, allergies and COVID-19.Each case is individual, so it is important to consult a professional for accurate diagnosis and treatment.