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When the air becomes chilled, Jack Frost isn't the only thing nipping at our noses. As we enter flu season, it can be difficult to know what illness you've come down with - whether it's the common cold, flu, pneumonia, or COVID-19, each having similar symptoms. But not to worry, we're here to help you understand the differences, recognize symptoms, and know what to do if you catch a pesky bug.
Influenza (the flu) is a contagious virus that causes infections of the nose, throat, and lungs. There are many types of flu (influenza A, B, and C) but we'll talk high level about it. Flu symptoms are quick to appear and though it may feel as though they linger, they normally last no longer than two weeks. It's also important to note that viruses are not responsive to antibiotics, making the flu a waiting game of fluids, tissues and rest.
COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, a novel coronavirus that targets the respiratory system. Most people who contract it show mild symptoms, but some will experience more severe cases. Colds can be caused by a number of viruses. Rhinoviruses are the most common, but other viruses that can cause colds include respiratory syncytial virus, human parainfluenza viruses, adenovirus, common human coronaviruses, and human metapneumovirus (CDC, 2021).
Pneumonia is a serious infection or inflammation of one or both lungs and is typically caused by a viral bacterial infection. It can be a result of severe cases of the flu, the common cold, or COVID-19. In young children, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the most common cause of viral pneumonia. Pneumonia can be life-threatening and should be treated as soon as possible.
Fever and chills are telltale signs of the flu, but they can also come with COVID-19. The flu also comes with frequent headaches, which are less common with COVID-19 and the common cold.
If you think you have the flu, get plenty of rest and drink lots of fluids. Call your primary care provider, try virtual care, or call 317-621-2727 to arrange care.
And if you don’t yet have any symptoms, keep it that way by getting your annual flu shot! Community patients can get their vaccination at their primary care provider's office, MedCheck or a Walgreens pharmacy location. Please call the office to schedule an appointment.
While the world continues to learn about COVID-19, its symptoms and its lasting effects, you probably remember the main symptoms to look out for: a fever coupled with dry cough and difficulty breathing. Losing your sense of taste and smell are also unique to COVID-19.
If you think you have COVID-19, it’s easy to get help at Community. Get a COVID-19 test at your local MedCheck or Community Clinic at Walgreens. You can also call your primary care provider or try virtual care to assess symptoms. Over-the-counter tests are available at your local drugstore, such as Walgreens, for diagnosis at home.
A cold can feel like the flu, but the symptoms are usually a bit less intense. It also differs from the flu and COVID-19 in that colds often come with a sore throat, sneezing and a runny nose.
You can beat a cold with plenty of rest and over-the-counter medicine.
Overlapping symptoms of pneumonia, the flu, and COVID-19 include:
Sometimes getting sick is inevitable, and the flu, COVID-19, and pneumonia can all lead to serious complications when ignored or left unchecked. Monitor your symptoms, and know the signs of needing emergency care.
Most cases of the flu pass within 3 – 5 days and don’t require medical attention. If you’re concerned about any symptoms — like a very high fever — you can call your healthcare provider.
Seek emergency help for the flu if you experience any of the following:
Symptoms of COVID-19 may appear 2 – 14 days after exposure to the virus. It’s advised to stay home after exposure and until you test negative for COVID-19. However, if you experience any of these severe symptoms, seek medical attention:
If left untreated, pneumonia can be life-threatening — especially for high-risk individuals. You should call your doctor if you experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or a cough that won’t go away. Anyone with severe symptoms or trouble breathing should get emergency care. Additionally, these high-risk individuals should go to the emergency room if they are experiencing pneumonia-like symptoms:
No matter if your symptoms point to the flu, COVID-19, a cold, or have escalated further to pneumonia, Community is standing by to keep you healthy this season. For more questions regarding the differences between these winter bugs, call your primary care provider, schedule at an urgent care location, or start a virtual care visit.
References:
CDC (2021, Nov 29). Common Colds: Protect Yourself and Others. https://www.cdc.gov/features/rhinoviruses/index.html
