Can you tell the difference between flu vs. strep vs. COVID-19? Cold and flu season is in full swing, and COVID-19 cases are rising once again. Knowing what symptoms to look for when you first start feeling sick can help. Read on to learn the key factors to consider when determining which illness you have and what to do.

Strep vs. COVID-19 and Other Illnesses

Strep

Strep throat is a bacterial infection that can cause severe throat pain, swollen lymph nodes, fever and white patches on the tonsils. Strep will not typically include other cold and flu like symptoms, like a runny nose or cough. Strep throat can be specifically tested for and is easily treated with antibiotics. Antibiotics will help prevent a serious but rare problem called rheumatic fever and reduce the time you are contagious. About 10% of sore throats in adults are caused by strep.

COVID-19

COVID-19 is a viral illness caused by the novel coronavirus that produces many symptoms including Sore throat, runny nose, nasal congestion, persistent cough, and headache. If you are experiencing these symptoms – you can start with a home test. If this is negative, repeat the test 24 to 48 hours later. If your test is positive and you have risk factors for severe COVID, please contact us right away to schedule an appointment to discuss Paxlovid. Paxlovid must be started within 5 days of symptom onset.

Flu

The flu is another viral illness that is similar to the common cold but much more severe symptoms. Sometimes it can be hard to tell the difference because the flu affects your nose, throat, and lungs and has many of the same symptoms as a cold. The flu is commonly diagnosed with a rapid antigen or diagnostic test. Antivirals are available but they must be given within 2 days of symptom onset and only shorten symptoms by about 12-24 hours.

Sinus Infection

Many of the symptoms of a sinus infection are the same you’d experience with a bad cold. They include: postnasal drip (that thick mucus in the back of your throat), discolored nasal discharge (green, yellow or brownish mucous coming out of your nose), stuffy nose or nasal congestion and tenderness or pain in the face – usually under the eyes or around the nose. You can also have headaches, tooth pain, coughing from the post nasal drip, fever, fatigue, a bad smell in your nose or a bad taste in your mouth and bad breath. Most sinus infections are viral, however if your symptoms are lasting more than a week, please make an appointment as antibiotics may be necessary.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia is a secondary infection in the lungs that can cause high fever, chest pain, difficulty breathing, shortness of breath and cough. It’s usually caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses like COVID-19. Pneumonia is usually diagnosed with a chest X-ray to look for inflammation in the lungs and is commonly treated with antibiotics.

How Can I Avoid Getting Sick?

You can help prevent illnesses by:

• Wearing a mask in public.
• Stay up to date with vaccinations
• Practicing good hygiene, using hand sanitizer with 60 percent alcohol, and disinfecting surfaces.
• Ensuring you’re taking good care of yourself and addressing any underlying conditions.
• Not touching your face, eyes, or mouth.
• Steering clear of anyone who is sick, whether it’s strep vs. COVID-19.