Distinguishing between COVID-19, the flu, and allergies may be difficult. However, experts note that the Corona Virus, the flu, and allergies have different symptoms:
The main symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, tiredness, dry cough, and shortness of breath.
Allergies have more chronic symptoms and include sneezing, wheezing, and coughing.
The flu has symptoms that are similar to the coronavirus, such as fever and body aches, but influenza usually doesn’t cause shortness of breath.
One key difference between the three is the 𝐬𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐛𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡 that occurs with the coronavirus. Normally the flu or a cold/allergies do not cause shortness of breath unless it has progressed to something more serious such as bronchitis or pneumonia.
Monitor yourself for symptoms which generally occur 2-14 days after exposure. Notify your physician’s office if you feel that you need to be seen. Call first. If you experience emergency symptoms: trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, seek medical attention immediately. Alert emergency personnel that you are experiencing symptoms of Corona Virus.
