COVID-19, influenza (flu), and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can cause similar symptoms, including fever, cough, congestion, fatigue, and body aches. While many cases can be managed at home, these illnesses can sometimes lead to serious complications.
Worsening symptoms or concerns about complications warrant medical attention
What They Look Like:
- COVID-19: Cough, fever, sore throat, fatigue, congestion, and sometimes shortness of breath or loss of taste and smell.
- Flu: Sudden fever, chills, body aches, headache, cough, and significant fatigue.
- RSV: Runny nose, congestion, cough, and fever. In infants, RSV may also cause poor feeding, wheezing, or difficulty breathing.
Because symptoms often overlap, testing may be needed to identify the virus
When should you go to the emergency room?
Seek emergency medical care if you or a loved one experiences:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Persistent chest pain or pressure
- Blue or gray lips or skin
- New confusion or difficulty waking up
- Signs of severe dehydration
- Symptoms that rapidly worsen
- Confusion or altered mental state
- Persistent cough or blood in mucus
- High fever that doesn’t subside
For infants, warning signs include difficulty breathing, pauses in breathing, poor feeding, or unusual sleepiness. A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher in a baby younger than 3 months requires immediate medical evaluation.
Call 911 for severe breathing difficulties, blue or gray lips, severe chest pain, or difficulty waking
Who is at higher risk?
Infants, adults 65 and older, pregnant people, and those with chronic conditions or weakened immune systems may be more likely to develop complications. If you are at higher risk and develop symptoms, contact a healthcare professional promptly because early treatment may help.
Get the care you need at Kyle ER & Hospital
COVID-19, flu, and RSV can range from mild illnesses to serious medical emergencies. Recognizing warning signs and acting quickly can make all the difference.
If you or a loved one experiences severe symptoms, seek emergency medical care. For life-threatening symptoms, call 911.