COVID-19 vs FLU vs COLD

Now that the rain has come, it may be helpful to decipher between viruses.  No matter which one you think you have please STAY HOME!

The difference between a cold and the flu

Walk down the aisles of any drugstore and you will see product after product marketed for both colds and flu. But these two illnesses are hardly twins.

It would be like grouping all humans together as identical.  While the cold and flu are both caused by viruses, they are two vastly different viruses with different actions.

With the common cold, you will have symptoms such as:

• a runny nose

• sneezing and coughing

• a sore or irritated throat

• body aches

If you have the flu, you will experience:

• a fever and chills

• fatigue

• body aches

• coughing

The muscle aches and pains are typically much greater with the flu.  You may have a sore throat with both, but it will be worse with a cold. And you might feel a little more congested and stuffier with a cold. However, in general, you will just feel much worse with the flu.

What about COVID-19?

COVID-19 symptoms can vary widely. Some people may be asymptomatic or have very mild symptoms. That is why it is so important to be cautious.

Common symptoms include:

• fever

•  chills

• cough or worsening of chronic cough

• shortness of breath

• sore throat

• runny nose

• loss of sense of smell or taste

• headache

• fatigue

• diarrhea

• loss of appetite

• nausea and vomiting

• muscle aches

Less common symptoms can include:

• stuffy nose

• conjunctivitis (pink eye)

• dizziness, confusion

• abdominal pain

• skin rashes or discoloration of fingers or toes

While we once ventured to work or out in public when we had “just a cold” (or even worse), that is certainly not the right course of action these days. Staying home when we have any symptoms is one of the most important things, we can do to help stop the spread.

If you suspect that you have COVID-19, contact your local public health department, and follow their guidance regarding next steps, including possible isolation and testing. This is also essential so public health officials can conduct any necessary contact tracing.