How to Tell if It’s a Cold, the Flu, Allergies or COVID-19
Find out how to tell the difference between cold, flu, allergies and COVID-19 with easy tips on spotting symptoms and knowing when to seek care.
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COVID-19
COVID-19 is still part of our lives, much like the seasonal flu and other illnesses. We’re here with the information, care and support you and your family need to navigate COVID-19 and stay safe and healthy.
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is a respiratory virus caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. It spreads easily from person to person and can cause illness ranging from mild cold-like symptoms to serious health problems.
COVID-19 Symptoms
COVID-19 symptoms can feel different for everyone and appear anywhere from 2–14 days after exposure to the virus. Common symptoms include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
How is COVID-19 diagnosed?
To find out if you have COVID-19, your provider will give you a test that collects a sample from your nose or throat to check for the virus that causes it, called SARS-CoV-2.
Types of COVID-19 Tests
There are two main types of viral COVID-19 tests:
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests: This is the most reliable type of COVID-19 test, and the one that is used by many health care providers. It may take up to three days to receive results.
- At-home tests (antigen tests): These rapid tests are widely available and give quick results, usually in 15-30 minutes. Positive results are considered very reliable, but a single negative result cannot rule out infection, especially if you don’t have symptoms.
How is COVID-19 treated?
Most people with COVID-19 have mild illness and can recover at home with rest, fluids and over-the-counter medicine to manage symptoms.
If you are at high risk for severe illness, your provider may prescribe an antiviral medicine like Paxlovid, which can help prevent serious complications. These medications are most effective within five days of when your symptoms begin.
If your symptoms worsen suddenly, or you experience a high fever that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter medicine, contact your provider or visit your nearest urgent care.
If you have trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion or bluish color on your lips or face, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency room.
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How to Prevent COVID-19
COVID-19 spreads easily, mainly through tiny droplets in the air when an infected person breathes, coughs or sneezes.
The best ways to prevent COVID-19 for yourself includes:
- Washing your hands often
- Avoiding close contact with people who are sick
- Keeping your COVID-19 vaccines up to date
If you are sick, follow these steps to prevent spreading COVID-19:
- Isolate yourself for at least five days
- Wear a mask around others
- Wash your hands often
- Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze
Get Your COVID-19 Vaccine
COVID-19 vaccines are safe and effective. There are many options to get vaccinated, including at an OSF HealthCare facility near you, your local health department or retail pharmacies.
If you receive your vaccine outside OSF, be sure to let your primary care provider know so your records can be updated.
Not sure if the vaccine is right for you? Talk with your doctor. They know your health history and can give you personal guidance.
FAQ
How long does COVID-19 last?
Most people with mild illness feel better in one to two weeks, though cough or tiredness may last a few weeks longer.
How long are you contagious with COVID-19?
People with COVID-19 can spread the virus starting one to two days before symptoms appear and for up to eight to ten days after. Most transmission happens early, often just before symptoms start and in the first few days after they begin. Even people without symptoms can still pass the virus to others.
When did COVID-19 start?
The first cases were reported in December 2019 in Wuhan, China. The virus quickly spread around the globe, and on March 11, 2020, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) officially declared COVID-19 a global pandemic.
Why is it called COVID-19?
COVID-19 stands for “Coronavirus Disease 2019,” named for the virus that causes it and the year it was discovered.
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In the spirit of Christ and the example of Francis of Assisi, the Mission of OSF HealthCare is to serve persons with the greatest care and love in a community that celebrates the Gift of Life.