Is it COVID-19, cold, flu or allergies?

COVID-19, the common cold, seasonal allergies and influenza cause very similar symptoms, but there are big differences in how these illnesses spread and are treated. Now more than ever, if you are experiencing any of these signs or symptoms, you should contact us to schedule testing in case it is COVID-19.

You can reduce your risk of infection from any COVID-19, colds, and the flu by following several standard precautions that have been recommended since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Research suggested that measures such as face masks and social distancing might have helped shorten the length of the last flu season and lessened the number of people affected.

Some standard precautions to take to help avoid getting sick include:

• Social distancing – maintain a distance of at least 6 feet from anyone outside of your household
• Avoiding crowded indoor and outdoor venues
• Wearing a face mask in indoor public spaces
• Washing your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds
• Using hand sanitizer
• Covering your mouth/nose when you cough/sneeze
• Avoid touching your nose, eyes, and mouth
• Cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces such as phones, door handles, light switches, etc.
• Get the covid shot if you haven’t already
• Get your annual flu shot

Wearing a face mask might help reduce exposure to seasonal allergens too. But the best way to prevent seasonal allergies is to avoid your known triggers. If you’re allergic to pollen, stay indoors when pollen is high.

If you think you might have symptoms of COVID-19 or the flu, call us to schedule an appointment and get a rapid test.

And remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.