Flu & Covid
Flu A & Flu B
The common Cold, the Flu and Covid are all contagious respiratory illnesses that affect the upper respiratory system and can be widespread during the colder months. They are caused by different viruses, and while they have similar symptoms, there are some differences.
The best treatment for Cold, Flu and Covid is hydration and rest. You should stay home for 24 hours after your fever has disappeared, and high fever or severe symptoms are reasons to see a doctor, especially in children. Over- the-counter products and home remedies can help control symptoms.
The best treatment for Cold, Flu and Covid is hydration and rest. You should stay home for 24 hours after your fever has disappeared, and high fever or severe symptoms are reasons to see a doctor, especially in children. Over- the-counter products and home remedies can help control symptoms.
symptoms
The symptoms of flu can include fever or feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue (tiredness).
CompPain areasrehensive Testing
in the muscles
Cough
can be with phlegm
Nasal
congestion, runny nose, sneezing, loss of smell, redness, or post-nasal drip
Whole body
chills, fatigue, fever, malaise, or body ache
Eyes
watery eyes, itchiness, or redness
Head
congestion or sinus pressure
Also common
chest pressure, headache, swollen lymph nodes, or throat irritation
Cold symptoms are usually milder than the symptoms of flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose.
Possible symptoms of Covid include
- Fever or chills.
- Cough.
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
- Sore throat.
- Congestion or runny nose
- New loss of taste or smell.
- Fatigue.
- Muscle or body aches.
Testing
A doctor may perform a nasal swab test to check for viruses; this checks for Flu A, Flu B as well as Covid. A chest X-ray can help rule out other conditions like pneumonia or bronchitis.
Treatment
There’s no medicine that can cure or shorten the duration of a cold, but there are things you can do to feel better while your body fights it off
- Rest: Get plenty of sleep
- Drink fluids: Avoid dehydration by drinking lots of water
- Humidify: Use a humidifier or cool mist vaporizer to add moisture to the air. If you don't have a humidifier, you can leave a bowl of water out, especially near a heat source.
- Take over-the-counter medications: Decongestants, antihistamines, and pain relievers can help with some symptoms. However, they won't prevent a cold or shorten its duration, and most have side effects. You should check the label for the proper dose and call your doctor if you need to take them more than four times a day or for more than two or three days. Children under six should not take over-the-counter medications.
- Try other remedies: You can also try:
- Using saline nasal spray or drops
- Breathing in steam from a hot shower or bowl of hot water
- Gargling with warm salt water to soothe a sore throat
- Using throat lozenges or cough drops
- Applying petroleum jelly to chapped skin around your nose and lips
- Drinking hot lemon and honey to soothe a sore throat
- Drinking bone broth or eating chicken, carrots, celery, and onion
- Drinking ginger tea to soothe a sore throat, reduce nausea, and manage muscle pain
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the first warning signs of the flu?
When you come down with the flu, the first sign might be extreme fatigue and severe body aches not caused by recent physical activity. Some people may also feel a scratchy or sore throat as the first sign of illness.
How do you tell the difference between a cold and COVID-19?
Different viruses cause colds and COVID-19; however, symptoms may overlap. These include coughing, fatigue, sore throat and stuffy nose. Because of the overlapping symptoms, it is difficult to tell the difference between a cold and COVID-19. A diagnostic test is the only way to know which one you have. If you are experiencing upper respiratory symptoms, a provider can determine if it might be best to get tested for COVID-19 to be sure.
Can you get COVID-19 at the same time as the flu?
Yes, it is possible to get COVID-19 and the flu at the same time, but it is unclear how often this happens.
What is considered the cold and flu season?
Cold and flu season is between October and May, usually peaking between December and February. Flu season typically lasts about 12 weeks.
Is there a vaccine for the common cold?
No, there is no vaccine for the common cold. There is a vaccine for the flu and for COVID-19. Speak to your provider about which vaccines are recommended for you and how to get one.
What is an upper respiratory infection (URI)?
An upper respiratory infection (URI) is a viral infection of the airways above the level of the lungs, such as the nose and the back of the throat. The common cold is a URI, as are sinusitis and pharyngitis. If you are experiencing symptoms of a URI but are unsure of the cause of your nasal congestion or cough, consider speaking to a healthcare provider who can evaluate your symptoms and provide the treatment you need.
What is the main cause of colds and flu?
Colds and the flu are caused by viruses. Many different viruses can cause colds, whereas the flu is only caused by the influenza virus.
What should I do if my child has the flu?
If your child has the flu, they need to rest and stay hydrated. Be sure to monitor them for severe symptoms like extreme lethargy, a high fever that won’t improve with fever-reducing medications, or difficulty breathing. If they develop these symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately.