Covid symptoms vs flu Take an at-home COVID test if you’re not sure what’s causing your discomfort. 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 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. 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. 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. 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. We help you zero in on which Jul 11, 2023 · RSV vs. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. 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. COVID can create any combination of these symptoms. S. Second, the way in which symptoms present themselves in patients is very different. Kids with COVID-19 may not have any symptoms, or their symptoms can be mild, like those of a common cold. You cannot tell the difference between flu and COVID-19 by symptoms alone because some of the symptoms are the same. This happens when the COVID-19 virus damages nerves involved in sensory perceptions. cold symptoms, you’d see an awful lot of overlap. 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. Time Between Exposure and Infection. 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. COVID-19 is caused by SARS-CoV-2. ” Feb 26, 2025 · If you were to make a chart of COVID-19 vs. COVID-19 vs. Humidifiers can help with symptoms, too. Dec 13, 2022 · The flu, Covid and R. 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. COVID-19, treatment options, and how the flu shot can provide protection from infection. 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. 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. Oct 11, 2022 · Cold vs. 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. Louis Park, Minnesota. A pattern of symptoms. Flu is caused by the influenza virus. According to the CDC, both illnesses cause varying COVID vs Flu vs. COVID-19 may cause a change or loss of taste or smell, which is uncommon in regular flu. In this episode of House Calls: Real Docs, Real Talk, Dr. Seasonal Flu • fever • cough • muscle ache & pains • headache • fatigue • runny or stuffy nose. The flu is caused by influenza A, B and C viruses. 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. Flu and COVID-19 are caused by different viruses that can be spread among people. Here are some questions to consider when trying to determine if you have COVID-19, flu or RSV. 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. Jan 9, 2025 · Cases of winter illnesses, such as the flu, Covid, RSV and norovirus have continued to surge across the UK. The number of patients a day in hospital last week due to the flu was 3. Cough and cold, flu and allergy seasons often all occur at the same time which can make working out your symptoms even more challenging. But for babies, some young Feb 3, 2025 · What are the symptoms of flu A vs. 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. But many people don’t The following article is designed to answer the following question. However, most cases of both the flu and COVID-19 are mild and can be treated and managed at home. 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. 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. To treat a cold, flu or COVID-19, rest and drink fluids. The flu comes on suddenly. COVID-19 and the flu cause many of the same symptoms, but there are some differences. 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. Even so, it can be hard to tell the difference between COVID and the flu based on symptoms alone. 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. Symptoms • chills Influenza (flu) is an upper respiratory infection. 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. Knowing the signs of a cold, the flu, and COVID-19 can help keep you and your loved ones safe. However, they also both share a range of moderate to severe symptoms including: Fever. 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. People at risk may also experience complications that extend the unwell period. 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. 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. Flu Symptom Comparison. According to the CDC , both illnesses cause varying Sep 22, 2024 · Cold symptoms tend to come on gradually, while flu symptoms come on suddenly. Common symptoms that COVID-19 and flu share include: Fever or feeling feverish/having chills (Not everyone with flu will have a fever. One of the biggest indicators of a COVID infection is the loss of taste or smell. 2 to 3 days Cough Low-grade fever Sneezing Sore Jan 13, 2025 · So far this year, the CDC estimates that 5. Shortness of breath can also come later with COVID-19 and becomes more severe and long-lasting than the flu. 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. Flu vs. 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. People hospitalized with COVID had a greater burden of disease, disability, and death than those with severe flu infections. Symptoms can vary widely with each of these illnesses. have symptoms that overlap — and also can look quite similar to those of the common cold, which is caused by a variety of viruses. 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. two to five post-COVID infection, and some people may take up to two weeks to show COVID symptoms, according to the CDC. Below is a chart that may help determine which illness you have. 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. The chart below highlights the most common flu and COVID symptoms versus the common cold. Flu is a viral infection affecting the nose, throat, and lungs, mostly during the winter months. Nov 17, 2023 · Flu vs. Wong. 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. COVID-19 can cause all of the flu symptoms mentioned above. 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. 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. Cough. Common Cold vs. You can take pain relievers to lower a fever or help with an achy body. Testing for COVID-19, flu, or HIV is recommended to know for sure. COVID-19 can cause more-serious illnesses in some people than the flu. Symptoms may be different for everyone. Headache. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. COVID-19 symptoms: Differences. Flu symptoms 2024. With, COVID it usually takes five days, but symptoms can emerge anywhere from two days to as late as 14 days after infection. Sep 17, 2024 · Signs and symptoms Similarities. 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. Sep 18, 2023 · Colds, influenza (the flu) and COVID-19 all affect your airways and how you breathe. RSV vs. All of these viruses spread in similar ways. Nov 27, 2024 · The flu vs. It is far worse than an ordinary cold, which usually causes a runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes and throat irritation. 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. Similarities between Flu and COVID. COVID vs. Symptoms COVID-19 • fever • dry cough • shortness of breath • fatigue. Testing is the only way to know for sure, says epidemiologist. But all three have very similar symptoms that overlap. Flu Symptoms COVID-19 Other signs and symptoms of COVID-19, different from flu, may include change in or loss of taste or smell. 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. Less Common . 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. 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. Having chills. COVID-19 can be contagious for longer than the flu and may include 2. Both the flu and COVID are caused by viruses that mainly affect the respiratory system. Brooke Bozick, an NIH expert on respiratory diseases that affect the lungs. COVID-19 Symptoms. Cold vs. Jan 15, 2025 · Another symptom that’s more typical with COVID-19 than with the others is diarrhea, Shaw says. Nov 12, 2020 · COVID-19 vs. The five stages of the flu are: Incubation: Lasting 1-4 days after infection, where the virus multiplies in the body without symptoms. 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. Jul 22, 2024 · For many, symptoms don’t last nearly as long as they once did. The novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, commonly referred to as COVID-19, typically causes mild upper respiratory infections. You can take pain relievers to lower a fever or help with an achy Flu, COVID-19 or Cold? Symptom Comparison Chart. Symptoms Shared by COVID-19 and Flu. Learn about symptoms of the flu vs. 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. Allergies vs. Symptoms of all are more similar than they are different and may look different in different age groups. Apr 1, 2024 · According to the NHS, the symptoms are very similar to symptoms of other illnesses, such as colds and flu. COVID-19 ; Influenza (Flu) Common Cold Immunization . Thanks to the variable nature of COVID-19, the only way to know whether you're infected is to be tested. Symptoms of COVID-19 and the flu can be similar and can range from no symptoms to severe symptoms. It Oct 7, 2020 · The symptoms of the flu and COVID-19 also appear on different time frames. If you have the flu, you usually develop symptoms one to four days after you’ve been infected. All three viruses have symptoms that are similar, which can make them difficult to tell apart. While the symptoms of the flu vs. Shared symptoms include: Fatigue. Click to see larger Jan 24, 2025 · COVID-19 is different from flu or RSV in that it can appear in different forms. 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 of a cold usually occur gradually without causing a fever or body aches, which usually occur with flu. Mar 26, 2020 · COVID-19, caused by the novel coronavirus, and the flu are both respiratory illnesses. 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. 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. Diarrhea. " Cold symptoms Jan 15, 2025 · Symptoms. Esper explains how RSV, the flu and COVID-19 symptoms are similar and how they differ. Sore throat. Fatigue. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing See full list on mayoclinic. What’s scary about COVID-19 is that healthy people with no known risk factors can get seriously ill. If you test positive for COVID-19, stay home and away from other people. Dec 3, 2019 · COVID-19, the flu (or influenza) and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are all respiratory illnesses but are caused by different viruses. Not everyone gets or notices symptoms, but common early symptoms include nasal congestion, sore throat, and a cough. COVID: Symptoms that overlap . COVID look and feel different, with COVID symptoms lasting longer and usually feeling more intense. Both COVID-19 and flu can have varying degrees of symptoms, ranging from no symptoms (asymptomatic) to severe symptoms. 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 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. Both COVID-19 and flu can be asymptomatic and you may have the illness without showing any signs. flu symptoms is that with COVID-19, you may experience a loss of taste or smell. Aug 31, 2020 · Flu viruses can cause mild to severe illness, including common signs and symptoms listed above. 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. Symptoms peak: At some point, your COVID symptoms will peak and feel their worst. People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported – ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness. 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. 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. RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, usually causes mild symptoms akin to cold that go away on their own. Gastroenteritis is not a type of flu, although it's colloquially known as stomach flu. 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. another? This is a tricky question, since there is much overlap between the three illnesses, and they can all start with very similar symptoms. The symptoms of a cold may come on gradually, while the flu usually starts abruptly. Most people go from feeling fine to feeling sick within 24 hours. Call your clinic or sign in to do an e-visit if you think you might have COVID-19. 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. org SYMPTOMS SYMPTOM Oct 14, 2024 · COVID-19 and seasonal influenza (flu) are respiratory infections caused by two different viruses. Aug 13, 2020 · Symptoms of COVID-19 and the flu appear at different times and have some differences. 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. Bottom line? Jan 15, 2025 · The CDC said the symptoms of RSV are similar to those of the flu or COVID. 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. While some of the signs, symptoms and population groups at risk of severe complications are similar, there are some important differences. Symptoms typically appear more gradually Aug 8, 2024 · Flu Symptoms vs. 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. xxiv. “If you start to develop any of the symptoms below, follow the same precautions taken for COVID-19 . 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). They're also both caused by viruses. This means they are easily confused with one another. 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). Learn about the causes, treatments, and how to prevent it. Flu symptoms may appear within one to four days of infection, while COVID-19 symptoms may appear up to 14 days after infection. It may not be as prevalent as some of the other COVID symptoms, but people still get it with a coronavirus infection. 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. Feeling Sick? Comparing symptoms of Cold, Strep, Flu & COVID-19. flu vs. All can cause fevers, cough, shortness of breath, decreased energy, sore throat, headaches or runny nose. Above all, if you’re symptomatic, stay at home to keep from getting others sick. Common Cold • sneezing • runny or stuffy nose • sore throat. 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. or stomach flu, is a contagious virus that causes vomiting. Flu symptoms generally take one to four days to appear after infection. "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. 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. Sep 14, 2023 · Dr. Body aches. The antiviral treatment is particularly important for folks who are more at risk of having a severe infection. 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. COVID-19 symptoms generally appear two to 14 days after exposure. 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. 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. 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. Symptoms of colds, the flu, RSV and COVID-19 may look the same. To better understand the differences in symptoms between the flu, the common cold, and COVID, here's a breakdown, per the CDC and Dr. Nov 27, 2024 · COVID-19 symptoms usually appear two to 14 days after exposure to the coronavirus. 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. Usually the first signs of the flu appear anywhere from one to four days after infection. Some people can experience an upset stomach, with diarrhea and nausea. 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. Kesh: Cough: all three. ” 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. 2 to 3 days Cough Low-grade fever Sneezing Sore Dec 18, 2024 · Flu . ; Prodrome: Early symptoms appear, including fever, chills, and body aches, signaling the onset of the flu. COVID does cause additional symptoms like change in or loss of taste or smell. 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. COVID-19 (Caused by a Type of Coronavirus) Symptoms. While a cold is not usually serious, the flu and COVID-19 can be. Symptoms of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) may not seem serious. Runny nose. You may not have all the symptoms listed below. So COVID-19 symptoms can look very much like those from a cold, RSV infection, or the flu. ) Cough. 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. Medical experts say COVID-19 symptoms may last for several weeks if not months. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. B? Whether you have influenza A or B, you can expect to develop the same general set of symptoms, the experts say. Cold, Flu, and COVID . Coughing. They include a cough, congestion, sneezing, fever and loss of appetite. 019024-01099 9/20 sanfordhealth. Signs and Symptoms of Bird Flu. In contrast,But both COVID-19 and a cold could certainly cause a sore throat, coughing and a stuffy or runny nose. xxiii One major difference in COVID vs. 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. 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. Some can have more severe flu-like symptoms. While preparing for winter illnesses, it may be useful to learn the symptoms of this year's influenza strain. “They can last for multiple weeks, if not months,” says Dr. 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. Let's discuss how to tell the difference. The flu vs. Flu symptoms tend to start suddenly. COVID-19 is caused by a new coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2, while the flu is caused by influenza viruses. V. Stomach Flu Symptoms . 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. Feb 3, 2025 · What are the symptoms of flu A vs. 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”). 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 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. What are the symptoms? COVID vs Flu vs. the flu vs. Jan 30, 2024 · The symptoms of COVID-19 and flu can range from mild to severe. Feb 10, 2025 · Unfortunately, there are no tell-tale signs for the flu versus COVID. Symptoms of COVID-19 | CDC 3. Early HIV symptoms can also be similar. Oct 23, 2024 · COVID-19 vs. “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: Symptoms that overlap COVID-19 is caused by a coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) infection, while the flu stems from influenza virus. The flu and COVID both cause: Fever. cold vs. 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. Oct 26, 2023 · Flu symptoms often come on quickly. COVID-19, what should Flu vs COVID-19 “Distinguishing COVID from flu can be difficult because the symptoms overlap so much,” explains Dr. COVID Symptoms. Common . COVID-19 and the flu are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. Jul 28, 2020 · Coronavirus (COVID-19) Like the flu, coronavirus (COVID-19) is a respiratory virus. Nov 1, 2024 · Anyone infected with COVID-19 can spread it, even if they do not have symptoms. COVID symptoms can be of rapid or more gradual onset. 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. COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. COVID-19 or the flu, Jan 22, 2025 · COVID and the flu cause similar symptoms. 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. 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. Because the symptoms are similar, it can be difficult to distinguish between illnesses caused by respiratory viruses. org Nov 27, 2024 · COVID-19 and the flu are both respiratory diseases that spread from person to person. With COVID-19, you may experience loss of taste or smell. These are common signs, but your symptoms may be more or less severe, or you may only have a few. 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. Flu symptoms usually appear about one to four days after exposure. The flu and COVID-19 share many characteristics and both can appear asymptomatic, which means you show no 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. 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. It is possible for a person to be infected with multiple viruses at the same time. Symptoms typically show up within four to six Nov 1, 2024 · COVID vs flu symptoms. 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. But they can also look different. Feb 16, 2023 · Neurological symptoms: COVID-19 can cause the loss of smell and taste. Also, COVID typically produces a dry cough. 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. 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. Monkeypox (Mpox) Rash: What Does Monkeypox Look Like? Flu, COVID, and RSV Cases Are on the Rise, But Few Americans Are Vaccinated, CDC Warns. 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. Dec 18, 2024 · Flu symptoms vs. 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. Also, COVID-19 can cause different complications than the flu, such as blood clots and multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children. Nov 16, 2024 · What are common flu symptoms? Flu symptoms are usually more severe than cold symptoms and come on quickly. Article Why Some Adults Are More at Risk. 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. It can be hard to tell if you have COVID or flu based on just your symptoms. 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. "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. Cold symptoms are usually milder than the symptoms of flu. Their symptoms overlap to a great extent, and it’s not always easy to tell them apart. Symptoms may appear two to 14 days after exposure to the virus. 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. Flu symptoms start to show up about one to four days after exposure to an influenza virus. 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. Sudden start. Here are some symptoms that can give you important clues on which virus might be making you sick. Oct 12, 2022 · You can't rely on just your symptoms to help you determine if you have a cold, the flu or Covid. COVID-19 is caused by a coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) infection, while the flu stems from influenza virus. But these are generalizations. It is important to contact a doctor to help diagnose your symptoms. ” COVID-19 symptoms begin to appear two to five days after exposure to the virus. Separate, but sometimes similar conditions When it comes to RSV vs. Both can also cause pneumonia . Chills. However, the same symptoms can be experienced with the flu, RSV, and sometimes with the common cold, the latter usually owing to congestion. 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. fzmuhewssfolraarlmmxebecbpuihqsgujmhwqbnnuvcywoldnqxueqryxnprjoaymftvkbjeusmvcaju