Do I Have COVID-19, the Flu, a Cold, or Something Else?

The season of sneezes and sniffles can bring uncertainty and frustration for families. If you or your little one is feeling under the weather, you may be wondering whether it’s a run-of-the-mill bug or something more serious, like influenza (the flu) or COVID-19.

Lina Nie, MD, PhD, provides comprehensive medical care for young patients, from newborns to young adults, at her practice in the Sunset Park neighborhood of Brooklyn in New York City. She offers a full range of pediatric services, including same-day sick visits and COVID-19 testing for kids.

Here, we cut through the confusion and explore key symptoms of each illness, so you can better understand what’s going on and know when it’s time to seek medical advice for yourself or your child.

Understanding the basics

It can be a challenge to distinguish between a cold, the flu, and COVID-19, as they share several similar symptoms. This overlap can make it difficult to know exactly what’s making you or your child feel sick. Let’s take a closer look at these common winter illnesses.

The common cold

The common cold, a viral infection, can be caused by over 200 different viruses. You’re probably familiar with the symptoms of a cold, which may include:

Runny or stuffy nose
Sneezing
Sore throat
Mild cough
Fatigue and body aches
Low-grade fever (more common in babies and kids)

Young children, particularly infants and toddlers, are more likely to catch a cold. Their developing immune systems make them more vulnerable to viral infections. School-age kids also tend to have more contact with other children — and less disciplined hygiene habits — increasing their exposure to cold-causing viruses.

Influenza (the flu)

Unlike a cold, the flu is specifically caused by influenza viruses. These viruses are highly contagious and can spread quickly through tiny droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.

The flu tends to come on suddenly, typically within two to three days of exposure to the virus, while a cold develops gradually. Flu symptoms are generally similar, but more severe than those of a cold.

Younger kids are more likely to also experience symptoms like:

Ear pain
Upset stomach
Vomiting
Diarrhea

Unable to clearly articulate their symptoms, babies and toddlers may seem irritable or fussier than normal.

COVID-19

COVID-19 spreads easily, like the flu, through respiratory droplets. Flu-like symptoms may appear as quickly as two days after exposure to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, or they may take up to two weeks to develop.

These distinctive symptoms may indicate COVID-19 rather than cold or flu:

Nausea, vomiting, and/or abdominal pain
Loss of taste or smell
Skin rash
Pink eye (conjunctivitis)

However, the symptoms of COVID-19, and the severity of those symptoms, can vary greatly from person to person. Some people may experience mild symptoms or even be asymptomatic, while others develop severe illness. Children and adolescents may be less likely to experience severe COVID symptoms, but they can still contract the virus and pass it on to others.

Beyond colds, flu, and COVID, winter often brings a surge in other respiratory illnesses, such as strep throat, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and whooping cough.

Treating colds, flu, and COVID-19

Most mild cases of colds and flu can be effectively managed at home with fluids and rest. Dr. Nie can give you personalized advice on appropriate over-the-counter (OTC) medications and safe dosages based on your child’s age, weight, and medical history.

If your child is experiencing any concerning symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, high fever, or confusion, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Nie. The only definitive way to distinguish between the flu and COVID-19 is through diagnostic testing.

Ensure your child is up to date on all recommended vaccinations, including the annual flu shot, at Nie Lina MD PC in Brooklyn, New York. Call or use online booking to schedule a checkup or immunization appointment today.