As we navigate through colder seasons and allergy peaks, distinguishing between COVID-19, seasonal allergies, and the flu (influenza) becomes more critical. These three illnesses share overlapping symptoms like cough, sore throat, runny nose, and fatigue, making it challenging to determine what exactly is causing your discomfort.
However, accurately identifying which condition you may be experiencing is crucial for seeking the right treatment and preventing the spread of potentially contagious viruses. While only a medical professional can give you a definitive diagnosis, understanding the key differences can help guide your next steps
Key Symptom Comparison – COVID-19 vs. Flu vs. Allergies
Let’s break down the most common symptoms and how they differ across the three conditions.
Fever and Body Aches
- COVID-19: Often includes fever and chills, along with muscle or body aches. These can vary in severity.
- Flu: Sudden onset of high fever is typical, along with significant body aches and fatigue.
- Seasonal Allergies: Rarely causes fever or muscle aches. You might feel tired, but not achy.
Onset of Symptoms
- COVID-19: Symptoms may develop 1 to 10 days after exposure and can start gradually.
- Flu: Symptoms develop rapidly, usually within 1 to 4 days of exposure.
- Allergies: Symptoms are ongoing or triggered by specific allergens like pollen or mold and persist as long as exposure continues.
Respiratory Issues and Cough
- COVID-19: Dry cough and shortness of breath are prominent. Some may also experience chest tightness.
- Flu: Can cause a dry or wet cough, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing.
- Allergies: Typically a dry cough caused by post-nasal drip. Shortness of breath only occurs if asthma is present.
Runny Nose and Nasal Congestion
- COVID-19: Common in milder cases, often accompanied by loss of taste or smell.
- Flu: Runny or stuffy nose may occur, especially in children.
- Allergies: Very common and persistent; often comes with itchy eyes and sneezing.
Distinctive Symptoms to Watch For
Loss of Taste or Smell
This is one of the more distinctive symptoms of COVID-19 and is far less common in flu or allergies.
Itchiness
Itchy eyes, nose, and throat are clear indicators of seasonal allergies and are rarely present in COVID-19 or flu cases.
What To Do If You’re Experiencing Symptoms
Step 1 – Self-Isolate Immediately
If you suspect COVID-19 or flu, it’s critical to stay home to prevent transmission. Isolate yourself from others in your household, use a separate bathroom if possible, and don’t share items like utensils or glasses.
Step 2 – Call Before Visiting a Doctor
Avoid walking into a clinic or ER without calling first. Most providers now offer telehealth appointments to evaluate your symptoms and recommend next steps.
Step 3 – Seek Testing and Vaccination
Contact your primary care physician or your local health department for COVID-19 or flu testing. If you haven’t been vaccinated yet, ask about vaccine availability and scheduling.
You can also visit the Delaware Division of Public Health’s official website at Coronavirus.Delaware.gov for resources or call 1-866-408-1899.
Prevention Tips for All Three Conditions
Practice Good Hygiene
- Wash hands frequently for at least 20 seconds.
- Avoid touching your face.
- Disinfect commonly touched surfaces like doorknobs and phones.
Wear Masks and Maintain Distance
While masks are no longer mandatory everywhere, wearing one in crowded indoor settings can still protect you from airborne viruses and allergens.
Take Medications and Vaccines
- Stay up-to-date with your COVID-19 boosters and flu shots.
- Use allergy medications like antihistamines as prescribed by your doctor to manage seasonal symptoms.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Seek emergency care if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Persistent chest pain or pressure
- Sudden confusion or inability to stay awake
- Bluish lips or face (sign of oxygen deprivation)
FAQs
Q1. How do I know if my cough is from COVID-19 or allergies?
A dry cough from COVID-19 is often accompanied by fever and fatigue, while allergy-related cough is typically caused by post-nasal drip and doesn’t come with fever.
Q2. Can I have both COVID-19 and seasonal allergies?
Yes, it’s possible to have both at the same time. If your symptoms worsen or include fever, body aches, or loss of smell, contact a doctor for evaluation and testing.
Q3. What are the most unique symptoms of COVID-19?
Loss of smell and taste, along with shortness of breath, are more specific to COVID-19 compared to flu and allergies.
Q4. Should I get tested even if I think it’s just allergies?
If your symptoms are new or different than your usual allergies, it’s best to get tested to rule out COVID-19 or the flu.
Q5. What’s the best way to treat seasonal allergies?
Over-the-counter antihistamines, nasal sprays, and avoiding allergens are the most effective treatments. See an allergist for persistent symptoms.
