As autumn takes hold in North Carolina, the Asheville/Blue Ridge region and natural scenic areas around Charlotte are surrounded by the changing leaves of all hues. You are also surrounded by unpleasant things in the fall, like the chill in the air and sniffles making their rounds. But when those familiar symptoms hit, how can you tell if it’s COVID-19, the flu, or just a common cold? Understanding the symptoms and how they differ is key to finding the right treatment and protecting those around you. 

This guide will break down the symptoms, how quickly they appear, and what treatment options are available to help you take control of your health. 

Visit any of our North Carolina clinics for COVID-19, flu, and cold testing and treatment. 

Common Symptoms

First, let’s look at the common symptoms of COVID-19, the flu, and the common cold: 

• COVID-19: Symptoms include fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle or body aches, sore throat, congestion, nausea or vomiting. 
• Flu: Symptoms are similar to COVID-19 and include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. 
• Common Cold: Symptoms are generally milder and include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, congestion, slight body aches, mild headache, sneezing, and a low-grade fever (rare). 

Onset of Symptoms

How quickly symptoms show up can also be a key factor in telling these illnesses apart: 

• COVID-19: Symptoms typically appear 2 to 14 days after exposure. The progression can be slow, with symptoms worsening over time. 
• Flu: Symptoms usually come on suddenly, often within 1 to 4 days after. The flu hits quickly and severely. 
• Common Cold: Symptoms generally develop gradually over a couple of days. Colds are usually milder and less sudden compared to the flu and COVID-19. 

Key Differences

• Breathing Difficulties: Severe shortness of breath is more associated with COVID-19, especially in moderate to severe. While it can occur with the flu, it is typically less severe and less common in the common cold. 
• Gastrointestinal Symptoms: COVID-19 and the flu can both cause gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, but these are more prevalent in children with the flu and less common in the common cold.

Testing and Diagnosis

Still unsure whether your symptoms are from COVID-19, the flu, or a cold? It’s best to get tested.  AFC has several clinics that offer rapid testing and treatment for a cold, the flu and COVID-19. 

Prevention and Treatment

• COVID-19: While COVID-19 vaccines are widely available, AFC specializes in testing and antiviral treatments. We believe that early intervention can significantly improve recovery and overall outcomes. 
• Flu: Annual flu vaccination is available. Antiviral medications can reduce the severity and duration of the flu if taken early. 
• Common Cold: There is no vaccine for the common cold, and treatment focuses on relieving symptoms. Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications can help manage your illness. 

Distinguishing between COVID-19, the flu, and a common cold can be tricky since they share many symptoms. Still, understanding how symptoms develop, their severity, and specific indicators can help you identify the illness. If you’re ever unsure—particularly if your symptoms are severe or you’re at a higher risk—consider testing at AFC to get a clear diagnosis. Preventative actions like vaccination, good hygiene, and staying up to date on health information can help safeguard you and those around you during the cold and flu season. 

If you think you might be experiencing COVID, flu or cold symptoms, visit one of our North Carolina clinics for a rapid flu test, cold treatments or COVID test.