DISTINGUISH YOUR SYMPTOMS
Why It’s So Hard To Tell if It’s COVID-19 or Something Else
C
olds, Influenza (Flu), and COVID-19 are all contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are all caused by different viruses. COVID-19 is caused by a new coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2, while flu is caused by infection with influenza viruses. There are more than 200 viruses that can cause a cold, but rhinoviruses are the most common type. Due to the variable nature of these illnesses, this means the only way to know whether you are infected is to get a COVID-19 test. Use this handy chart to help distinguish your symptoms.
Ronda Hatcher RN, BSN, CIC Director of Infection Prevention and Employee Health Services
COLD vs FLU vs COVID-19 Signs & Symptoms
Cold
Influenza (Flu)
COVID-19*
Asymptomatic
Never
Never
Common
Symptom onset
Gradual; symptoms peak within 2-3 days and last for up to 10 -14 days
Abrupt;typically symptoms develop 1-4 days after infection
Gradual or abrupt, with symptoms typically starting 5 days after being infected but can range from 2-14 days
Fever
Rare
Usual; lasts 3-4 days
Usual
Aches
Slight
Usual; often severe
Usual; often severe
Chills
Uncommon
Fairly common
Fairly common
Fatigue, weakness
Sometimes
Usual
Usual
Sneezing
Common
Sometimes
Sometimes
Chest discomfort, cough
Mild to moderate; hacking cough
Common; can be severe
Common; can be severe
Stuffy, runny nose
Common
Sometimes
Sometimes
Sore throat
Common
Sometimes
Sometimes
Headache
Rare
Common
Common
Vomiting and diarrhea
Rare
More common in children than adults
More common in children than adults
Change or loss of taste or smell
Not applicable
Not applicable
Common
*While more is learned every day, there is still a lot that is unknown about COVID-19 and the virus that causes it. Unfortunately, it is possible to catch the Flu, a cold, and COVID-19 at the same time and only a test will confirm if you are infected. 3 8 | FOCUS ON WELLNESS
