The common cold, flu and COVID-19 are all caused by viruses that affect your respiratory system, and all three illnesses share some symptoms. This makes it difficult to know what you may be sick with when you’re feeling under the weather.

Learn more about the similarities and differences between the three illnesses below.

This Bulletin is not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel for legal advice. Design ©2020 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.

Cold

Symptoms typically come on gradually.

Common symptoms include:

  • nasal congestion, sneezing and runny nose
  • Can also include cough, mild headache and minor body aches
  • Symptoms tend to last a week (you’re generally contagious for first three days)
  • Doctor visit is unnecessary – over-the-counter medications are generally effective

Flu

Symptoms usually come on suddenly and vigorously, and are more severe than a cold.

Common symptoms include:

  • high-grade fever, headache, muscle or body aches and fatigue
  • Can also include dry cough, sore throat and runny or stuffy nose, as well as nausea and vomiting (more common in children than adults)
  • Symptoms generally improve within two to five days, but can last a week or more
  • You should stay home until 24 hours after fever is gone to avoid spreading the flu to others
  • Prescription antiviral drugs can help decrease the severity and length of symptoms
  • Complications can occur; call a doctor if you think your symptoms are worsening or if you have a condition such as asthma, diabetes or pregnancy.

COVID-19

Symptoms can appear two to 14 days following exposure to COVID-19.

Common symptoms include:

  • fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, congestion and sore throat
  • Can also include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and new loss of taste or smell
  • Some may experience little to no symptoms, while others may require hospitalization
  • Even after recovering from COVID-19, you may experience lingering symptoms
  • Complications can occur; call a doctor if you think your symptoms are worsening or if you are at a higher risk for severe illness (e.g., elderly or immunocompromised)