What is the Difference Between a Cold and COVID-19?
Uh oh—you’ve woken up with sore throat and runny nose. This ordinarily would not be a cause for panic, but 2020 has changed the way we think about sniffles and scratchy throats. So, can you spot the differences between a common cold and COVID-19?
It’s important to note that it’s impossible to rule out COVID-19—the respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus—without a professional diagnostic test. This is because COVID-19 and the common cold share several possible symptoms, including:
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Cough
- Sore throat
However, the common cold is more likely to blame for your illness if your symptoms include:
- Frequent sneezing
- Red or watery eyes
- A mild cough
COVID-19 is more probable if your symptoms include:
- Fever
- A severe cough
- Loss of taste or smell
- Shortness of breath
Virtual Visits, COVID-19 Testing & More at Fast Track Urgent Care
Fast Track Urgent Care’s fully equipped immediate care centers in Silver Spring and Kensington, Maryland, are here to meet the evolving medical needs of patients. That’s why we’re pleased to provide Virtual Visits (telemedicine) to patients with contagious symptoms, as well as safe and straightforward rapid COVID-19 testing. You can also rely on our board-certified physicians and experienced medical practitioners for cold and flu treatment, as well as important wellness services like flu shots and walk-in physicals.
Fast Track Urgent Care is here to help you stay healthy during this unique time. To discuss your symptoms with a medical professional, reserve a Virtual Visit on this page or visit one of our urgent care clinics when it’s most convenient for you. To schedule a rapid COVID-19 test, call 844-202-1532.
