Covid symptoms vs flu Some can have more severe flu-like symptoms. Common . Here are some symptoms that can give you important clues on which virus might be making you sick. The flu can cause symptoms that typically improve for most people within 3 to 7 days In some cases, some symptoms such as cough and a general unwell feeling may stay present for over 2 weeks. Learn about symptoms of the flu vs. COVID-19 can be contagious for longer than the flu and may include 2. It Oct 7, 2020 · The symptoms of the flu and COVID-19 also appear on different time frames. COVID-19 vaccine Dec 3, 2021 · The flu has symptoms similar to COVID-19, such as fever and body aches, but it doesn’t usually cause shortness of breath. In this episode of House Calls: Real Docs, Real Talk, Dr. Jan 11, 2025 · That’s important to see if you need one of the medicines that can help prevent severe illness: Paxlovid for COVID-19 and Tamiflu for flu. Aug 31, 2020 · Flu viruses can cause mild to severe illness, including common signs and symptoms listed above. You may not have all the symptoms listed below. Feeling Sick? Comparing symptoms of Cold, Strep, Flu & COVID-19. What’s scary about COVID-19 is that healthy people with no known risk factors can get seriously ill. "What are the differences and similarities between the common cold, flu, and COVID-19?"The table below summarizes the similar and different signs and symptoms of the common cold, flu, and COVID-19. But a cough is also a typical symptom of many other conditions, including the flu, the common cold, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and Sep 23, 2024 · What are the symptoms of COVID-19, flu, and RSV - and how can I tell if I have one virus vs. cold symptoms, you’d see an awful lot of overlap. Similarities between Flu and COVID. COVID-19 can cause all of the flu symptoms mentioned above. two to five post-COVID infection, and some people may take up to two weeks to show COVID symptoms, according to the CDC. Shortness of breath can also come later with COVID-19 and becomes more severe and long-lasting than the flu. COVID-19, what should Flu vs COVID-19 “Distinguishing COVID from flu can be difficult because the symptoms overlap so much,” explains Dr. Medical experts say COVID-19 symptoms may last for several weeks if not months. Influenza (Flu) and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses Apr 5, 2022 · It's not possible to tell if you have Covid-19, flu or another respiratory infection based on symptoms alone, official advice says. Symptoms of COVID-19 | CDC 3. Cough. The flu comes on suddenly. You cannot tell the difference between flu and COVID-19 by symptoms alone because some of the symptoms are the same. However, while the flu is caused by the influenza virus, COVID-19 is caused by the 2019 novel coronavirus (also known as “severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2” or “SARS-CoV-2”). RSV: What You Need to Know VIRUS LEVEL OF INFECTIVITY TIME FROM EXPOSURE TO INFECTION SYMPTOMS PREVALENCE IN CHILDREN IMMUNIZATION AVAILABILITY COMMON COLD Rhinovirus Less contagious Symptomatic individuals shed the virus during the first 2 to 3 days of infection. COVID-19 Symptoms. Kids with COVID-19 may not have any symptoms, or their symptoms can be mild, like those of a common cold. The number of patients a day in hospital last week due to the flu was 3. or stomach flu, is a contagious virus that causes vomiting. Jul 22, 2024 · For many, symptoms don’t last nearly as long as they once did. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. Follow WADOH recommendations to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and Nov 8, 2024 · But your symptoms can give you clues about whether you have COVID, RSV, or the flu. Sep 14, 2023 · Dr. COVID look and feel different, with COVID symptoms lasting longer and usually feeling more intense. Kesh: Cough: all three. org Nov 27, 2024 · COVID-19 and the flu are both respiratory diseases that spread from person to person. ) Cough. RSV: What You Need to Know VIRUS LEVEL OF INFECTIVITY TIME FROM EXPOSURE TO INFECTION SYMPTOMS PREVALENCE IN CHILDREN VACCINE AVAILABILITY COMMON COLD Rhinovirus Less contagious Symptomatic individuals shed the virus during the first 2 to 3 days of infection. COVID symptoms take between two and 14 days after exposure to surface—and can progress to more severe symptoms in Dec 18, 2024 · Flu symptoms vs. COVID-19, treatment options, and how the flu shot can provide protection from infection. The flu and COVID-19 share many characteristics and both can appear asymptomatic, which means you show no symptoms. But they can also look different. Nov 12, 2020 · COVID-19 vs. Symptoms peak: At some point, your COVID symptoms will peak and feel their worst. Symptoms typically appear more gradually Aug 8, 2024 · Flu Symptoms vs. Shared symptoms include: Fatigue. Symptoms of flu include sore throat, fever, headache, muscle aches and soreness Dec 27, 2024 · Flu symptoms may appear within one to four days of infection, while COVID-19 symptoms may appear up to 14 days after infection. " Cold symptoms Jan 15, 2025 · Symptoms. COVID-19 (Caused by a Type of Coronavirus) Symptoms. The five stages of the flu are: Incubation: Lasting 1-4 days after infection, where the virus multiplies in the body without symptoms. While a cold is not usually serious, the flu and COVID-19 can be. Jan 15, 2025 · Another symptom that’s more typical with COVID-19 than with the others is diarrhea, Shaw says. Symptoms typically show up within four to six Nov 1, 2024 · COVID vs flu symptoms. Brooke Bozick, an NIH expert on respiratory diseases that affect the lungs. As we progress towards Flu Season amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, it can be difficult to tell the difference in symptoms between influenza, COVID-19, and even strep throat, a cold and simple seasonal allergies. Feb 3, 2025 · What are the symptoms of flu A vs. RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, usually causes mild symptoms akin to cold that go away on their own. Runny nose. COVID or the flu, Flu, COVID-19, strep throat and respiratory syncytial virus (known as RSV) have similar cold-like symptoms, and they all affect the respiratory system, but there are some key differences. COVID-19 or the flu, Jan 22, 2025 · COVID and the flu cause similar symptoms. Sep 19, 2024 · September usually marks the start of flu season, and with the ongoing threat of COVID-19, it’s crucial to be vigilant about your family’s health. Common symptoms that COVID-19 and flu share include: Fever or feeling feverish/having chills (Not everyone with flu will have a fever. COVID-19 vs. Sudden start. Coughing. Thanks to the variable nature of COVID-19, the only way to know whether you're infected is to be tested. COVID-19 can be contagious for longer than the flu and may include Flu symptoms may appear within one to four days of infection, while COVID-19 symptoms may appear up to 14 days after infection. Children under the age of 2, adults over age 65, pregnant and postpartum women, people taking certain medications and those with chronic medical conditions, including lung or heart conditions, can develop severe or life-threatening complications from the flu. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. And some doctors are taking a more lenient approach to COVID testing – especially since tests are no longer free – saying they Mar 17, 2022 · Nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain can be symptoms of stomach flu, food poisoning, and COVID-19. COVID-19 may cause a change or loss of taste or smell, which is uncommon in regular flu. 2 to 3 days Cough Low-grade fever Sneezing Sore Dec 18, 2024 · Flu . Apr 1, 2024 · According to the NHS, the symptoms are very similar to symptoms of other illnesses, such as colds and flu. Symptoms can vary widely with each of these illnesses. COVID-19 can be contagious for longer than the flu and may include Feb 4, 2025 · COVID still kills more people overall each year than the flu, although flu hospitalizations this winter are double those for COVID, suggesting that flu has had a more concentrated winter peak. Also, COVID-19 can cause different complications than the flu, such as blood clots and multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children. Common symptoms shared by COVID-19, and the flu include: Change in or loss of taste or smell, although this is more frequent with COVID-19. If you have symptoms, get a COVID test and if you are (or think you might be) positive, get somebody else to pick up cold and flu medicines With every cough or sniffle, you may wonder if it’s asthma or allergies, the flu, respiratory syncytial [sin-SISH-uhl] virus (RSV), the common cold, or even COVID-19. 019024-01099 9/20 sanfordhealth. It is far worse than an ordinary cold, which usually causes a runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes and throat irritation. But how can you tell the difference? The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) created a respiratory symptoms chart to help you recognize the similarities and differences between these conditions. Cold vs. Cold, Flu, and COVID . Also, COVID typically produces a dry cough. Testing is the only way to know for sure, says epidemiologist. It is important to contact a doctor to help diagnose your symptoms. Article Why Some Adults Are More at Risk. Symptoms Shared by COVID-19 and Flu. org SYMPTOMS SYMPTOM Oct 14, 2024 · COVID-19 and seasonal influenza (flu) are respiratory infections caused by two different viruses. Humidifiers can help with symptoms, too. COVID-19 is caused by a coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) infection, while the flu stems from influenza virus. "While we see many of the same symptoms such as cough, fatigue, and headache, COVID-19 may also present with nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, or sudden loss of taste and/or smell. They're also both caused by viruses. While preparing for winter illnesses, it may be useful to learn the symptoms of this year's influenza strain. The novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, commonly referred to as COVID-19, typically causes mild upper respiratory infections. Even so, it can be hard to tell the difference between COVID and the flu based on symptoms alone. Allergies vs. Flu symptoms may appear within one to four days of infection, while COVID-19 symptoms may appear up to 14 days after infection. COVID-19 ; Influenza (Flu) Common Cold Immunization . COVID-19 Symptoms Flu symptoms may appear within one to four days of infection, while COVID-19 symptoms may appear up to 14 days after infection. Esper explains how RSV, the flu and COVID-19 symptoms are similar and how they differ. It’s true that COVID-19 symptoms sometimes include fever, loss of taste and loss of smell, — and these issues are rare with a cold. Flu Symptoms COVID-19 Other signs and symptoms of COVID-19, different from flu, may include change in or loss of taste or smell. Flu is caused by the influenza virus. Time Between Exposure and Infection. Flu vs. What are the symptoms? COVID vs Flu vs. Flu symptoms usually appear about one to four days after exposure. Monkeypox (Mpox) Rash: What Does Monkeypox Look Like? Flu, COVID, and RSV Cases Are on the Rise, But Few Americans Are Vaccinated, CDC Warns. Dec 17, 2024 · Flu symptoms may appear within one to four days of infection, while COVID-19 symptoms may appear up to 14 days after infection. If you have the flu, you usually develop symptoms one to four days after you’ve been infected. COVID-19 and the flu cause many of the same symptoms, but there are some differences. Cough; Diarrhea (more frequent in children with flu, but can occur in any age with COVID-19) Both the flu and COVID-19 cause a cough and shortness of breath, but overall, COVID-19 symptoms tend to last longer than the flu. COVID can create any combination of these symptoms. Both COVID-19 and flu can be asymptomatic and you may have the illness without showing any signs. COVID-19 symptoms: Differences. According to the CDC , both illnesses cause varying Sep 22, 2024 · Cold symptoms tend to come on gradually, while flu symptoms come on suddenly. It can be hard to tell if you have COVID or flu based on just your symptoms. Nov 16, 2024 · What are common flu symptoms? Flu symptoms are usually more severe than cold symptoms and come on quickly. But all three have very similar symptoms that overlap. Call your clinic or sign in to do an e-visit if you think you might have COVID-19. Not everyone gets or notices symptoms, but common early symptoms include nasal congestion, sore throat, and a cough. With, COVID it usually takes five days, but symptoms can emerge anywhere from two days to as late as 14 days after infection. Flu symptoms tend to start suddenly. Both the flu and COVID-19 cause a cough and shortness of breath, but overall, COVID-19 symptoms tend to last longer than the flu. These are common signs, but your symptoms may be more or less severe, or you may only have a few. B? Whether you have influenza A or B, you can expect to develop the same general set of symptoms, the experts say. But for babies, some young Am I at higher risk for serious illness from COVID-19 or flu? Let’s be clear: Both COVID-19 and flu can result in severe illness, complications, hospitalizations and even death. xxiii One major difference in COVID vs. Some individuals are at higher risk from Dec 12, 2024 · It’s important to talk to a medical provider if these symptoms pop up, especially if a home COVID-19 test turns out negative. Oct 26, 2023 · Flu symptoms often come on quickly. Shortness of breath is more common with COVID-19 than with flu, and a runny nose is more common with flu than COVID-19 – but either is possible with both illnesses. Usually the first signs of the flu appear anywhere from one to four days after infection. Less Common . Nov 27, 2024 · COVID-19 symptoms usually appear two to 14 days after exposure to the coronavirus. We don’t know yet why some people get really sick from COVID Mar 3, 2021 · This is what you need to know about what’s similar and what’s different between symptoms of Covid-19 and the flu. Sore throat. With COVID-19, you may experience loss of taste or smell. Here is a helpful comparison of Is it COVID, RSV, norovirus or the flu? Here’s how to - MSN The flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are all highly contagious respiratory infections caused by viruses: The flu by influenza virus, COVID-19 by SARS-CoV-2 virus, and RSV by respiratory syncytial virus. Symptoms may be different for everyone. Feb 16, 2023 · Neurological symptoms: COVID-19 can cause the loss of smell and taste. Both COVID-19 and flu can have varying degrees of symptoms, ranging from no symptoms (asymptomatic) to severe symptoms. However, they also both share a range of moderate to severe symptoms including: Fever. Cough and cold, flu and allergy seasons often all occur at the same time which can make working out your symptoms even more challenging. Jan 30, 2024 · The symptoms of COVID-19 and flu can range from mild to severe. The provider might diagnose as the flu based on symptoms alone or recommend a flu test, says Shannon Neale, MD, a family physician with HealthPartners Park Nicollet, in St. Headache. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. Cold Symptoms: The signs and symptoms of flu can include fever or feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue (tiredness). COVID Symptoms. Jan 9, 2025 · Cases of winter illnesses, such as the flu, Covid, RSV and norovirus have continued to surge across the UK. Separate, but sometimes similar conditions When it comes to RSV vs. Flu symptoms start to show up about one to four days after exposure to an influenza virus. Jan 17, 2025 · “If you think you might have the flu, you should get tested, as there are medications that can help shorten the illness,” Long said. If you test positive for COVID-19, stay home and away from other people. All of these viruses spread in similar ways. Jan 1, 2025 · Flu symptoms may appear within one to four days of infection, while COVID-19 symptoms may appear up to 14 days after infection. The chart below highlights the most common flu and COVID symptoms versus the common cold. cold vs. This means they are easily confused with one another. COVID-19 is caused by a new coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2, while the flu is caused by influenza viruses. Nov 5, 2024 · A key difference between COVID and the flu is COVID’s unique symptom: changes in or complete loss of taste and smell. “If you start to develop any of the symptoms below, follow the same precautions taken for COVID-19 . Keywords: National Institute on Aging Created Date: 1/28/2022 2:25:00 PM We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Dec 13, 2022 · The flu, Covid and R. “They can last for multiple weeks, if not months,” says Dr. According to the CDC, both illnesses cause varying COVID vs Flu vs. You can take pain relievers to lower a fever or help with an achy Flu, COVID-19 or Cold? Symptom Comparison Chart. COVID-19 can cause more-serious illnesses in some people than the flu. COVID-19 can be contagious for longer than the flu and may include Feb 27, 2024 · People with serious cases of both flu and COVID can experience symptoms throughout their body for months to years after the acute illness has resolved, according to a study. another? This is a tricky question, since there is much overlap between the three illnesses, and they can all start with very similar symptoms. Learn about the causes, treatments, and how to prevent it. Diarrhea. While some of the signs, symptoms and population groups at risk of severe complications are similar, there are some important differences. Dec 17, 2023 · Similarities between COVID-19 and flu Symptoms shared by COVID-19 and flu viruses. Additionally, some people who have COVID-19 do not have any symptoms. Bottom line? Jan 15, 2025 · The CDC said the symptoms of RSV are similar to those of the flu or COVID. COVID-19 can be contagious for longer than the flu and may include Jan 18, 2025 · Dry cough typically indicates COVID-19 compared with the flu. Oct 11, 2022 · Cold vs. Symptoms of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) may not seem serious. 3 million people nationwide have had the flu, and the virus has hospitalized 63,000 people, as well as contributed to 2,700 deaths, including 11 children. A pattern of symptoms. Symptoms COVID-19 • fever • dry cough • shortness of breath • fatigue. COVID-19: If you test positive for COVID-19, talk with a healthcare professional as soon as possible to see if treatment is right for Jan 31, 2024 · Amid the current winter wave surge of respiratory virus cases, how challenging is it for physician's to distinguish between, diagnose, and treat COVID-19 vs RSV and influenza? Dec 17, 2024 · Both flu and Covid can cause a high temperature, a cough and a sore throat as well as other unpleasant symptoms (Image: Getty Images) (Image: Getty Images) Nov 16, 2022 · Many symptoms of COVID-19, flu, and cold are similar. The challenge, however, is being able to tell the difference between the flu, the common cold, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and COVID-19, since all have similar symptoms. So COVID-19 symptoms can look very much like those from a cold, RSV infection, or the flu. Seasonal Flu • fever • cough • muscle ache & pains • headache • fatigue • runny or stuffy nose. Flu Symptom Comparison. COVID symptoms can be of rapid or more gradual onset. Feb 21, 2025 · What are the symptoms of COVID-19? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people with COVID-19 can experience a wide range of symptoms, from mild reactions to severe illness. ” Regardless of whether you’ve got a cold, the flu, or coronavirus, you may be coughing , have a sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, have difficulty breathing, fatigue Nov 27, 2024 · The best way to know for sure if you have COVID-19 is by taking a test. The flu and COVID both cause: Fever. Nov 17, 2023 · Flu vs. COVID does cause additional symptoms like change in or loss of taste or smell. People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. This happens when the COVID-19 virus damages nerves involved in sensory perceptions. Some of the primary symptoms of the flu overlap with symptoms of COVID-19, making it Cases of both COVID-19 and the flu range from asymptomatic, meaning no symptoms are present, to severe. Below is a chart that may help determine which illness you have. The diagnosis cannot be made just by asking you about your symptoms or by doing an exam because the symptoms can also be caused by other conditions. Knowing the signs of a cold, the flu, and COVID-19 can help keep you and your loved ones safe. Fatigue. 2 to 3 days Cough Low-grade fever Sneezing Sore Jan 13, 2025 · So far this year, the CDC estimates that 5. ” COVID-19 symptoms begin to appear two to five days after exposure to the virus. But many people don’t The following article is designed to answer the following question. Symptoms may appear two to 14 days after exposure to the virus. You can develop a cough, fever Jun 13, 2023 · COVID-19, the flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are together driving a wave of respiratory illnesses. May 13, 2024 · With a new variant of the Sars-CoV-2 virus causing a spike in cases, it is showing just how much symptoms of the disease have changed since the pandemic began. People at risk may also experience complications that extend the unwell period. Let's discuss how to tell the difference. Diarrhea is not a common sign of the flu in adults (it is in kids, though), nor does it usually accompany a cold or RSV. Symptoms of colds, the flu, RSV and COVID-19 may look the same. Their symptoms overlap to a great extent, and it’s not always easy to tell them apart. COVID-19 is caused by SARS-CoV-2. Children under 10 are less likely to be infected with and show symptoms of COVID-19, so if they have flu-like symptoms, they're more likely to have the flu, he added. Redness • Itchy, sensitive skin, rash or hives – swelling • Shortness of breath, cough, wheeze, chest tightness Although the flu and COVID-19 are caused by different viruses, they share very similar symptoms and may require testing to be able to tell which one you might have. COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Symptoms • chills Influenza (flu) is an upper respiratory infection. Both the flu and COVID are caused by viruses that mainly affect the respiratory system. However, the same symptoms can be experienced with the flu, RSV, and sometimes with the common cold, the latter usually owing to congestion. COVID-19 can be contagious for longer than the flu and may include Nov 20, 2024 · Flu symptoms may appear one to four days post-infection, vs. Nov 1, 2024 · Anyone infected with COVID-19 can spread it, even if they do not have symptoms. While the symptoms of the flu vs. Stomach Flu Symptoms . To treat a cold, flu or COVID-19, rest and drink fluids. Symptoms of all are more similar than they are different and may look different in different age groups. COVID is an infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, which was discovered Mar 10, 2025 · COVID-19 is caused by infection with a coronavirus named SARS-CoV-2, and flu is caused by infection with one of the influenza viruses. Oct 12, 2022 · You can't rely on just your symptoms to help you determine if you have a cold, the flu or Covid. V. It is possible for a person to be infected with multiple viruses at the same time. Eduardo Sanchez explains in detail the symptoms of these diseases, how they are treated, and how The common cold often shares many of the symptoms associated with COVID-19 or the flu but tends to be much milder. Oct 23, 2024 · COVID-19 vs. COVID-19: Similarities and differences The current strains of both the flu and COVID-19 can cause the same symptoms as previous variants: Fever ; Cough; Runny nose ; Body aches; Sore throat; Fatigue; Headache; Occasional nausea or diarrhea COVID-19 symptoms may also include loss of taste or smell, which can be helpful in distinguishing Common Symptoms of a Cold, the Flu, and COVID-19 Author: National Institute on Aging Subject: Symptom comparison chart between the cold, flu and Covid-19. Second, the way in which symptoms present themselves in patients is very different. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing See full list on mayoclinic. Flu is a viral infection affecting the nose, throat, and lungs, mostly during the winter months. According to the CDC, flu symptoms often include: Fever; Cough; Sore throat; Runny or stuffy nose; Body aches; Headaches; Fatigue; Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea Flu symptoms may appear within one to four days of infection, while COVID-19 symptoms may appear up to 14 days after infection. Chills. The flu vs. Cold symptoms are usually milder than the symptoms of flu. Here are some questions to consider when trying to determine if you have COVID-19, flu or RSV. have symptoms that overlap — and also can look quite similar to those of the common cold, which is caused by a variety of viruses. Some people can experience an upset stomach, with diarrhea and nausea. Dec 18, 2024 · Flu symptoms vs. COVID-19 can be contagious for longer than the flu and may include Jan 28, 2025 · Dry cough typically indicates COVID-19 compared with the flu. Says Washer, one symptom that used to be more unique to a COVID infection was the loss of taste or smell, but that has become less common with newer variants of SARS-CoV2. All three viruses have symptoms that are similar, which can make them difficult to tell apart. Dec 3, 2019 · COVID-19, the flu (or influenza) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are all respiratory illnesses but are caused by different viruses. In contrast,But both COVID-19 and a cold could certainly cause a sore throat, coughing and a stuffy or runny nose. Covid-19 may not be that different, an August 2020 study in Frontiers in Public Health suggests that the order in which symptoms appear may help Jan 27, 2025 · The common cold, flu, and COVID-19 all have similar symptoms. This questions and answers page will help you know the facts about both COVID-19 and influenza so you can make more informed decisions about your health. Sep 17, 2024 · Signs and symptoms Similarities. Louis Park, Minnesota. Because COVID-19 and the flu have similar symptoms, it can be hard to diagnose which condition you Nov 27, 2024 · Symptoms start: After the incubation period, you may develop symptoms of COVID. Above all, if you’re symptomatic, stay at home to keep from getting others sick. RSV vs. It may not be as prevalent as some of the other COVID symptoms, but people still get it with a coronavirus infection. Symptoms typically show up within four to six Flu symptoms may appear within one to four days of infection, while COVID-19 symptoms may appear up to 14 days after infection. xxiv. Just like with cold and flu, there's also a Jan 13, 2025 · To treat a cold, flu or COVID-19, rest and drink fluids. the Common Cold Symptoms of influenza (flu), respiratory syncytial (sin-SISH-uhl) virus (RSV), and COVID-19 are similar and may include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Both can also cause pneumonia . flu vs. Dec 4, 2024 · What are the symptoms of COVID-19? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people with COVID-19 can experience a wide range of symptoms, from mild reactions to severe illness. Most people feel better within a few days or weeks of their first covid-19 symptoms and Dec 19, 2024 · Flu symptoms may appear within one to four days of infection, while COVID-19 symptoms may appear up to 14 days after infection. Take a look at our symptoms checker for a simple overview of the indicators of some symptoms in different Sep 24, 2020 · For a visual summary of the main differences between the symptoms of colds, flu and COVID-19, download this printable resource. COVID-19 symptoms generally appear two to 14 days after exposure. the Flu More Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, COVID-19 and influenza are different contagious respiratory illnesses that are all driving high rates of infection and high Feb 13, 2025 · The period you’re experiencing symptoms can vary in COVID-19 vs. The antiviral treatment is particularly important for folks who are more at risk of having a severe infection. Flu symptoms generally take one to four days to appear after infection. COVID: Symptoms that overlap COVID-19 is caused by a coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) infection, while the flu stems from influenza virus. Most people go from feeling fine to feeling sick within 24 hours. The symptoms of a cold may come on gradually, while the flu usually starts abruptly. However, most cases of both the flu and COVID-19 are mild and can be treated and managed at home. But these are generalizations. S. COVID: Symptoms that overlap . To better understand the differences in symptoms between the flu, the common cold, and COVID, here's a breakdown, per the CDC and Dr. Body aches. Jan 14, 2025 · A number of winter illnesses have symptoms that overlap with those of COVID-19, but there is antiviral treatment specifically for COVID that can help you feel better faster. Nov 27, 2024 · The flu vs. One of the biggest indicators of a COVID infection is the loss of taste or smell. Should you get a test? Mar 15, 2024 · COVID-19 can only be diagnosed through a test that specifically looks for the SARS-CoV-2 virus in your body. You can take pain relievers to lower a fever or help with an achy body. Because the symptoms are similar, it can be difficult to distinguish between illnesses caused by respiratory viruses. The flu is caused by influenza A, B and C viruses. ; Prodrome: Early symptoms appear, including fever, chills, and body aches, signaling the onset of the flu. Symptoms of COVID-19 and the flu can be similar and can range from no symptoms to severe symptoms. Flu COVID-19 ALLERGIES FLU SPREAD AND SYMPTOMS • Spread person-to-person • Fever • Cough • Shortness of breath • Not spread • Itchy, runny nose, sneezing, coughing • Itchy, watery eyes. Some nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), including PCR tests, can differentiate between Jan 7, 2021 · Flu symptoms usually appear about one to four days after exposure to an influenza virus. COVID-19 can be contagious for longer than the flu and may include Oct 17, 2024 · “The most common COVID symptoms are fever, runny nose, congestion, cough and loss of smell and taste. the flu vs. But spotting these symptoms can help to reduce the spread to Nov 28, 2024 · Here, find out about a new at-home test that might be able to tell the difference, plus learn doctors’ tips for distinguishing between COVID-19 and the flu. “Flu antivirals are different than those used for COVID and will not work against the common cold, so a positive test can be helpful in guiding [treatment]. COVID and RSV symptoms, on the other hand, come Dec 17, 2024 · Loss of smell or taste became a common symptom of COVID-19 in earlier cases of the infection. But knowing which virus a person has can help them receive proper treatment or, if need be, let them know if they need to isolate. Symptoms of a cold usually occur gradually without causing a fever or body aches, which usually occur with flu. Click to see larger Jan 24, 2025 · COVID-19 is different from flu or RSV in that it can appear in different forms. Testing for COVID-19, flu, or HIV is recommended to know for sure. If you have a runny nose or itchy eyes, it doesn’t necessarily mean Oct 30, 2024 · The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends prompt treatment for anyone at higher risk who has flu or suspected flu, so contact a trusted healthcare professional as soon symptoms first appear. Signs and Symptoms of Bird Flu. While there’s a lot of overlap between them, there are also key differences in the symptoms, incubation This is helpful because some of the symptoms are the same, the CDC reiterates, meaning you "cannot tell the difference between flu and COVID-19 by symptoms alone. Aug 13, 2020 · Symptoms of COVID-19 and the flu appear at different times and have some differences. Sep 25, 2020 · Both the flu and COVID-19 cause a cough and shortness of breath, but overall, COVID-19 symptoms tend to last longer than the flu. Gastroenteritis is not a type of flu, although it's colloquially known as stomach flu. Wong. We help you zero in on which Jul 11, 2023 · RSV vs. Flu symptoms 2024. COVID-19 can be contagious for longer than the flu and may include Jan 19, 2025 · The CDC said the symptoms of RSV are similar to those of the flu or COVID. 5 times higher The CDC notes that people with the flu can experience some or all of the following symptoms, and that the impact of the virus can range from mild to severe, even leading to death in some cases Nov 30, 2023 · A cough is one of the hallmark symptoms of COVID-19. Sep 18, 2023 · Colds, influenza (the flu) and COVID-19 all affect your airways and how you breathe. Jul 28, 2020 · Coronavirus (COVID-19) Like the flu, coronavirus (COVID-19) is a respiratory virus. flu symptoms is that with COVID-19, you may experience a loss of taste or smell. All can cause fevers, cough, shortness of breath, decreased energy, sore throat, headaches or runny nose. They include a cough, congestion, sneezing, fever and loss of appetite. While there are many similarities between COVID-19 and flu symptoms, there are some specific differences, depending on the COVID-19 variant, including: Symptom onset. Mar 26, 2020 · COVID-19, caused by the novel coronavirus, and the flu are both respiratory illnesses. Common Cold • sneezing • runny or stuffy nose • sore throat. Apr 16, 2021 · COVID-19: COVID-19 has a longer incubation period, ranging from 2 to 14 days, although many people develop symptoms 5 days after contracting the virus. COVID vs. Take an at-home COVID test if you’re not sure what’s causing your discomfort. People hospitalized with COVID had a greater burden of disease, disability, and death than those with severe flu infections. Common Cold vs. You may have a runny nose or congestion, sneezing, sore throat, cough, slight Because "both flu viruses and the virus that causes COVID-19 can be spread to others by people before they begin showing symptoms; by people with very mild symptoms; and by people who never experience symptoms (asymptomatic people)," the CDC recommends the COVID vaccine plus a flu shot: "Flu vaccines and COVID-19 vaccines can be given at the Oct 23, 2024 · In fact, many of the most common COVID-19 symptoms are commonly seen in other illnesses, like the flu, the common cold or seasonal allergies such as hay fever (see Table 1). ” Feb 26, 2025 · If you were to make a chart of COVID-19 vs. Having chills. The main symptoms include: Dec 14, 2022 · On average, flu symptoms tend to develop two days after exposure to the virus, whereas RSV symptoms tend to take around four to six days to appear, and Covid's typical incubation is three to four The signs and symptoms of both diseases can range from no symptoms to mild or severe symptoms. COVID-19 symptoms Emily Schiff-Slater Part of the reason it can be tricky to know whether you have the flu or a cold or even COVID-19 is simply because there are only a few minor “The flu and COVID-19 can have similar symptoms,” says Health Canada. Flu and COVID-19 are caused by different viruses that can be spread among people. COVID-19 and the flu are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. Feb 10, 2025 · Unfortunately, there are no tell-tale signs for the flu versus COVID. COVID-19 appears to be more contagious and to spread more quickly May 23, 2024 · For most people, the flu may last from a few days to 2 weeks, COVID-19 may last between 1 and 14 days, and RSV symptoms can last between 1 and 2 weeks. But for babies, some young Feb 3, 2025 · What are the symptoms of flu A vs. Early HIV symptoms can also be similar. mnjq rxlc bojdyex hwsb ajhznu tgx ydejkc optfe bncpn sfi lhkoay piyvh nzzg iejqek hcx