Introduction
This is the season when respiratory viruses become more common, but how can you distinguish between the symptoms of COVID, the flu, and a cold? From Hackensack Meridian Medical Group in New Jersey, Dr. William Brian Glenn explains what you should know to be prepared for any virus that may strike you this fall and winter.
The problem with COVID-19, the flu, and the common cold is that they all have similar symptoms, according to Glenn. Cough, sneezing, runny nose, sore throat, and exhaustion are common symptoms of a cold, but symptoms of the flu can also include headache, fever, chills, body aches, and fatigue.
According to Glenn, COVID can cause symptoms similar to the flu and the common cold, as well as taste or smell loss, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and shortness of breath.
While flu symptoms appear abruptly, cold symptoms typically appear gradually. After exposure to the surface, COVID symptoms can appear two to fourteen days later. In certain cases, these symptoms can worsen.
Are some people more susceptible than others to COVID-19, the flu, and colds?
Respiratory infections are more common in the elderly and in children and adults with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, lung or kidney disease, metabolic problems, heart disease, and cancer.
According to Glenn, using some medications that impair immunity can also increase a person’s risk of contracting these diseases.
If you’re traveling, keep in mind that your destination may have a different cold and flu season than the US. To find out what vaccinations are necessary in the nation you are visiting, contact the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
If you have an average chance of contracting any of these respiratory viruses, be vaccinated against COVID and influenza. Consult your healthcare professional about the best preventive measure for you if you have additional health issues or conditions that put you at higher risk.
Take care of yourself
Frequently wash your hands, cover your mouth while coughing, sneeze into your shoulder, use a mask when necessary, clean frequently heavily handled surfaces (counters, doorknobs, toilet handles), stay hydrated, and take breaks when necessary are all ways to protect yourself against all of these diseases, according to Glenn.
