Cold vs. flu vs. COVID: Decoding the symptoms

Knowing which one you’re dealing with can help guide the next steps. Use this symptom checker to better understand what your body might be telling you.

Man and doctor

It often starts the same way — a runny nose, a sore throat, maybe a cough.  

Viral infections are common, especially in the colder months. But knowing which one you’re dealing with can help guide the next steps. Use this symptom checker to better understand what your body might be telling you.

When to call your doctor 

Call your doctor if your symptoms are severe, aren’t improving after a few days, or you’re at higher risk for complications due to age or underlying conditions. You should also reach out if you have trouble breathing, a high fever that doesn’t go down, chest pain, or sudden worsening of symptoms. When in doubt, it’s always better to check in with your doctor, especially if you’re unsure which virus you have. 

 

Cold vs. flu vs. COVID: Decoding the symptoms