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As the fall and winter months approach, respiratory viruses such as the common cold, influenza (flu), and COVID-19 begin circulating more widely. But with similar symptoms, how can you tell which illness you’re dealing with? Dr. William Brian Glenn, a specialist from Hackensack Meridian Medical Group in New Jersey, offers key insights to help distinguish between these conditions and stay prepared.
Overlapping Symptoms: What to Watch For
One of the main challenges is that the symptoms of colds, flu, and COVID-19 often overlap, making it difficult to immediately differentiate between them. “The symptoms for each can be quite similar,” Dr. Glenn notes. However, there are subtle differences:
- Common Cold: Symptoms include cough, sneezing, runny nose, sore throat, and fatigue. Cold symptoms tend to develop gradually, often over the course of a few days.
- Flu (Influenza): The flu can present with all the symptoms of a cold, but it often also includes headache, fever, chills, body aches, and more intense fatigue. Flu symptoms typically come on suddenly, often within hours.
- COVID-19: COVID can mimic both cold and flu symptoms but may also involve a loss of taste or smell, gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or shortness of breath. The onset of COVID symptoms can take anywhere from two to 14 days after exposure and may progress to more severe complications in some people.
Who’s Most at Risk?
Some individuals are more susceptible to these respiratory viruses, including the elderly, young children, and people with chronic health conditions such as diabetes, lung or kidney disease, metabolic disorders, heart disease, and cancer. Additionally, those taking immunosuppressive medications may be at higher risk for severe illness. “If you’re in any of these high-risk groups, it’s crucial to take extra precautions,” Dr. Glenn advises.
Vaccination: Your Best Defense
Vaccination remains one of the most effective tools for protecting against influenza and COVID-19. Dr. Glenn recommends following vaccine guidelines based on individual risk levels. “If you’re at average risk, ensure you’re up to date with the flu and COVID vaccines,” he says. “For those with higher risk due to chronic conditions or other concerns, consult your healthcare provider for tailored prevention strategies.”
For those planning to travel, it’s essential to consider the flu season in your destination, which may differ from that in the United States. Checking for vaccine recommendations through the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) before traveling is a good practice.
Staying Safe: Simple Steps to Reduce Risk
Prevention strategies for all respiratory viruses remain largely the same. Dr. Glenn highlights a few important practices to protect yourself and others:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
- Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze (sneeze into your elbow or shoulder).
- Wear a mask in crowded or high-risk environments.
- Clean high-touch surfaces, such as doorknobs and countertops, regularly.
- Stay hydrated and get adequate rest to keep your immune system strong.
By staying informed and taking these precautions, you can reduce your risk of falling ill this season. Whether it’s a cold, the flu, or COVID-19, understanding the symptoms and seeking timely medical advice can help you stay healthy as respiratory viruses circulate.
