What are similarities & differences in symptoms of COVID-19, common cold, flu & allergies?
Symptoms of COVID-19, cold, flu, and allergies can be similar and different from one another on the following parameters:
Similarities & differences in symptoms of COVID-19, common cold, flu & allergies | ||||
Symptoms | COVID-19 (moderate to severe) | Cold | Flu | Allergies |
Fever | Common | Rare | High (100-102 F), for 3-4 days | Never |
Headache | Can be present | Rare | Intense | Uncommon |
General aches, pains | Can be present | Slight | Usual, often severe | Never |
Fatigue, weakness | Can be present | Mild | Intense, can last up to 2-3 weeks | Sometimes |
Extreme exhaustion | Can be present | Never | Usual (starts early) | Never |
Stuffy/runny nose | Has been reported | Common | Sometimes | Common |
Sneezing | Has been reported | Usual | Sometimes | Usual |
Sore throat | Has been reported | Common | Common | Sometimes |
Cough | Common | Mild to moderate | Common, can become severe | Sometimes |
Shortness of breath | In more serious infections | Rare | Rare | Rare, except for those with allergic asthma |
Loss of smell and taste | Has been reported | Sometimes | Sometimes | Never |
Diarrhea | Has been reported | Never | Sometimes in children | Never |
