Flu, RSV, COVID, or Allergies: How to Tell the Difference

During late winter and early spring in South Texas, many patients experience symptoms such as cough, congestion, fatigue, and sore throat. These symptoms can be caused by several different conditions including the flu, COVID, RSV, or seasonal allergies.

Because these illnesses share many symptoms, it can sometimes be difficult to know which one you may have.

Flu Symptoms

The flu often begins suddenly and may cause:

• Fever or chills

• Body aches

• Fatigue

• Headache

• Cough

• Sore throat

Flu symptoms are typically more severe than the common cold and may last several days.

COVID Symptoms

COVID symptoms can vary but often include:

• Fever

• Cough

• Fatigue

• Headache

• Sore throat

• Congestion

• Loss of taste or smell in some cases

Some people experience mild symptoms, while others may feel significantly ill.

RSV Symptoms

Respiratory Syncytial Virus, often called RSV, commonly affects infants and young children but can also affect adults.

Symptoms may include:

• Runny nose

• Persistent cough

• Fever

• Wheezing

• Difficulty breathing in severe cases

Young children and older adults may experience more severe illness.

Seasonal Allergy Symptoms

Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to environmental triggers such as pollen. Common symptoms include:

• Sneezing

• Runny nose

• Nasal congestion

• Itchy eyes

• Postnasal drip

Unlike infections, allergies do not cause fever or body aches.

When to Visit Urgent Care

You should consider visiting urgent care if symptoms include:

• Fever lasting more than two days

• Difficulty breathing

• Severe fatigue

• Persistent cough

• Symptoms that worsen over time

Urgent care providers can evaluate symptoms and determine whether testing or treatment is needed.

Respiratory Care at StatCare

StatCare Urgent Care offers walk in evaluation for respiratory illnesses across South Texas. Providers can help determine the cause of symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment.

Learn more about services and locations at www.mystatcare.com.