Cold and flu season is fast approaching, and it’s time to brace yourself for the usual sniffles, coughs, and sore throats as the weather turns cool.
But it’s not always easy to determine what’s causing your symptoms — and with COVID-19 still circulating, it’s important to know what you have to protect yourself and others.
Colds, the flu, and COVID-19 symptoms can be similar, so recognizing the differences is essential to getting the care you need. Our team at Midwest Regional Health Services is ready to help. We offer convenient primary care for the family and walk-in visits for acute illness.
Here’s how to tell the difference between these common wintertime viruses.
The common cold is usually the least severe of the three. It’s caused by multiple viruses, most commonly rhinoviruses, and primarily affects the upper respiratory tract. Symptoms of a cold can include:
Although annoying, colds generally don’t cause extreme fatigue or respiratory distress; fevers are uncommon. Colds rarely lead to serious health complications, and most people recover in 7-10 days.
The flu is caused by influenza viruses and tends to hit harder than the common cold. Flu symptoms usually come on suddenly and are more severe. Common flu symptoms are:
Some people also experience vomiting or diarrhea, but that’s more common in children.
The flu can lead to complications like pneumonia, particularly in older adults, young children, and people with underlying health conditions. Most people recover from the flu in 3 to 7 days, but it can last longer.
COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It can have symptoms similar to colds and the flu, but it’s more likely to cause serious respiratory symptoms and complications. Common symptoms of COVID-19 are:
COVID-19 can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia and blood clotting issues. It can also have long-term effects, known as "long COVID," including lingering fatigue, brain fog, and respiratory problems.
Testing is the only way to confirm if you have COVID-19, and it’s important to get tested if you have symptoms. Vaccines and boosters are critical in reducing the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19.
Most of the time, a cold resolves on its own. If you have more severe symptoms, like fever, body aches, or shortness of breath, seek medical attention. Our team offers flu and COVID-19 tests to diagnose your symptoms, and we can recommend treatment to help you feel better.
If you’re unsure what’s causing your symptoms, getting tested for COVID-19 and talking with our care team is your best course of action. Taking precautions, like staying home when you're sick, wearing masks, and practicing good hygiene, helps reduce the spread of these illnesses.
Learn more about protecting yourself and others this cold and flu season with an appointment at Midwest Regional Health Services in Omaha, Nebraska. Call us at 402-745-1145 or send us a message online today.
