How to Tell If You Have a Cold, Flu, Allergies, or COVID-19

Covid-19 Resources
Written By Ashley Hawkins

Supporting our artist community is at the heart of what we do. Each day we’re going to be sharing some important tools, opportunities, and resources for artists on our blog. Follow along and reach out if you need additional support. 

Today we’re going to talk about your options for how to tell if your symptoms are a flu, cold, or COVID-19. 

With seasons changing and a global pandemic upon us, it can be easy to run in mental circles as you try to listen to your body. Here are common symptoms & what they can mean. 

Check the slides for a chart with all symptoms and conditions.

COLD

A cold is characterized by mild symptoms and can be treated with over the counter medication. Symptoms will last 7 to 10 days

Most Common Symptoms:

  • Runny / stuffy nose

  • Watery Eyes

  • Sneezing

  • Sore throat

FLU

A flu is a respiratory infection that is caused by a virus and affects your nose, throat, and lungs. Can last 5 to 7 days and best prevented by vaccinations. Most get well without medical treatment

Most Common Symptoms:

  • Cough (usually dry)

  • Fatigue

  • Fever / Chills

  • Headaches

  • Aches and pains

ALLERGIES

As seasons change, your immune system can overreact to certain allergens such as pollen from trees, plants, grasses, and weeds.

Most Common Symptoms:

  • Sneezing

  • Runny nose

  • Watery / Itchy eyes

  • Itchy Sinuses (throat, ear)

  • Postnasal drainage

COVID-19

COVID-19 is a strain of coronavirus that can cause severe illness in certain groups. It is highly transmittable. You could be a carrier with no symptoms and can pass it on to others. The best way to prevent the spread is to socially distance/ stay at home as there is currently no cure. 

Symptoms:

  • Fever/chills

  • Cough

  • Shortness of breath

  • Aches and pains

  • Headaches

  • Sore Throat

  • Loss of smell/taste

SHOULD I GET TESTED?

Testing depends on your state or city and guidelines are going to change based on availability of testing and the situation in your area. 

Check for your city’s instruction on next steps if you are experiencing symptoms or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19

Drive Thru testing is becoming more available in America. Check for an urgent care provider offering curbside testing in your area to avoid overwhelming hospitals treating critical COVID-19 Cases

IN RICHMOND

Call (1 888 700 9011) to reach the Mercy Health hotline if you are showing signs of COVID-19 or have had exposure. 

Bettermed Urgent Care is providing drive-thru testing by appointment only. No previous conditions are required. 

SOURCES

Ashley Hawkins
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