‘Tis the season of holiday cookies, cheery people, and, sadly, winter sickness. No, getting wet in the rain isn’t going to make you sick. You are more likely to get sick during the winter because you spend more time in enclosed spaces with others and because viruses hang in the air longer due to the low humidity levels. As we face rising rates of cold, flu, and COVID-19 cases, we want to share with you how to identify the differences between the three and what to do about them.
Flu, Cold & Covid-19 Symptom Differences
The common cold is caused by any of several viruses that force inflammation of the membranes that line the nose and throat. While there are over 200 different viruses currently known, Johns Hopkins reports that the one you are most likely to catch is the rhinovirus. Typically, a cold will appear 1 to 3 days after exposure to a cold-causing virus.
The flu is a contagious respiratory disease caused by influenza A and B viruses. Usually, flu symptoms will become apparent 1 to 4 days after exposure to an influenza virus.
COVID-19, like the flu, is a contagious respiratory disease. COVID-19 symptoms usually present within 2 to 14 days after exposure to SARS-CoV-2.
Symptom Check: Cold, Flu, and COVID-19
Unfortunately, remembering the differences in symptoms between having a cold, flu, or COVID-19 can be challenging. Fortunately, Mayo Clinic laid it out, and we compressed it into this easy-to-understand table! It is important to note that some individuals will not present or have mild symptoms with any of these three. Additionally, you can have more than one at a time; they aren’t exclusive.
|
Symptom |
Cold |
Flu |
COVID-19 |
|
Headache |
Rare |
Usually |
Usually |
|
Cough |
Usually |
Usually |
Usually (dry) |
|
Muscle Aches |
Sometimes |
Usually |
Usually |
|
Tiredness |
Sometimes |
Usually |
Usually |
|
Sore Throat |
Usually |
Usually |
Usually |
|
Runny/Stuffy Nose |
Usually |
Usually |
Usually |
|
Fever |
Sometimes |
Usually |
Usually |
|
Nausea |
Never |
Sometimes |
Sometimes (more common in kids) |
|
Vomiting |
Never |
Sometimes |
Sometimes (more common in kids) |
|
Diarrhea |
Never |
Sometimes |
Sometimes (more common in kids) |
|
Shortness of Breath / Difficulty Breathing |
Rare |
Usually |
Usually |
|
New Loss of Taste or Smell |
Sometimes (especially with a stuffy nose_ |
Usually (early – often without a runny/stuffy nose |
Rarely |
Complications with Cold, Flu, & COVID-19
The last thing you want when you get sick is to have complications. Fortunately, common colds are usually harmless. Most people will recover within 3 to 10 days, but some can experience cold symptoms for as long as three weeks. If you are experiencing continuous cold symptoms, you may be experiencing a secondary infection that requires antibiotics.
Most people who experience the flu will recover within two weeks, but those who contract complications can be at risk of life-threatening symptoms. Common minor complications include sinus and ear infections, whereas deadly complications can include heart inflammation and organ failure.
COVID-19 symptoms can evolve into far worse complications than the cold or flu, such as blood clots and post-COVID-19 syndrome. For more information, Mayo Clinic has provided a brief on the long-term effects of post-COVID-19 syndrome.
The best way to prevent life-threatening complications is to visit a doctor if you do not get better within the standard time frame of the sickness or if you experience severe symptoms. Additionally, if you are at high risk of developing complications, such as those with chronic medical conditions, are pregnant, are younger than 5, or are over 65 years old. Remember, it is better to visit early than too late.
How to Avoid Getting Sick
The cold, flu, and COVID-19 are spread by people carrying the virus who sneeze, cough, breathe, talk, or even sing in your area. Those little droplets can be inhaled when you pass by them, or they can land on a surface you touch and then spread to your own face. The best way to prevent getting sick is to follow these guidelines:
- Get vaccinated for the flu and COVID-19
- Avoid contact with those you know to be sick
- Maintain social distancing in public spaces
- Wear a mask when in crowded indoor spaces
- Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer frequently
- Improve airflow in shared indoor spaces
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth in public
- Avoid sharing dishes, glasses, and other such items
- Regularly disinfect high-traffic areas such as countertops, doorknobs, light switches, remotes, etc.
Additionally, if you suspect that you are sick, take action to protect others by staying home. Call in sick from work, quarantine yourself away from family and friends, and practice the above techniques until you are no longer in the range to spread the sickness further. If you are forced to go out, follow the above guidelines. In addition, make sure to cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, avoid touching high-traffic areas, and skip public transportation if possible.
Sick or Not: Home Instead Senior Care in Tri-Cities Can Help
Home Instead is committed to providing high-quality in-home care services, during these uncertain times. Our mission is to help enhance the lives of seniors, veterans, and their families by providing personalized care to those in need. If you or a beloved senior in your life is considering getting in-home assistance to achieve the best life possible, please book a consultation with us to learn more. We are proud to serve our local seniors and veterans in the Tri-Cities, Walla Walla, Prosser, and surrounding towns here in Southeastern Washington. Not sure if you need in-home assistance? Check out our in-home care services to see what we can offer you and those you love.
