Darrick Robles Sore throat, stuffy nose and coughing – is it a cold , flu or Covid-19 ? Since autumn has started and people are staying indoors more, more and more people are getting infected with respiratory viruses. However, it is usually not possible to identify which respiratory disease is involved at first glance. Here you can find out when you should do a corona test.
What causes colds, flu and Covid-19?
All three infections are viral infections. Many different viruses can cause a cold. So-called rhinoviruses are usually the culprits – they are responsible for up to half of all infections.
Influenza, better known as the flu, is caused by influenza viruses. In humans, the influenza viruses are divided into three types (A, B and C). There are many different strains of the flu that are constantly evolving.
The corona pandemic was triggered by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. While it is only a virus, different virus variants have evolved around the world .
Covid-19, flu or cold?
Although Covid-19, flu and cold are caused by different viruses, the symptoms are sometimes very similar. However, the severity and duration of the disease and the symptoms that occur can vary greatly from person to person.
Despite these differences, the following common symptoms can indicate the respective disease:
Since the complaints overlap, Covid-19 cannot be diagnosed or ruled out on the basis of the symptoms alone. If you have typical symptoms of a Covid-19 infection, you should get tested. This also applies to mild symptoms.
How do I protect myself from colds, flu and Covid-19?
get vaccinated
Vaccination against Covid-19 offers the best protection – for yourself and the people around you. The STIKO (Standing Vaccination Committee) also recommends a booster vaccination for everyone over the age of 18 whose second Covid 19 vaccination was at least 6 months ago. Also, anyone vaccinated with Johnson & Johnson should receive a booster shot of an mRNA vaccine.
Influenza vaccination is also recommended for certain people. This includes, among others, everyone over the age of 60, pregnant women from the 2nd trimester and people with underlying diseases. You can find more information about risk groups and the flu vaccination here. The best time to do this is fall or early winter, but you can have it done later.
Pay attention to hygiene
Covid-19, flu and cold viruses are spread through airborne droplets and aerosols. But they can also be transmitted if you touch an infected area and then your face. You can protect yourself and others from this by regularly cleaning surfaces, washing your hands regularly and covering your mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
wear a mask
Respirators not only protect against Covid-19, they also prevent the spread of cold and flu viruses. You should always wear a mask when you are in closed rooms with other people or when you cannot keep a minimum distance of 1.50 meters in large crowds.
When should I seek medical advice?
A doctor can help you to clarify whether it is the flu, a cold or Covid-19 – and initiate the appropriate treatment.
In these cases you should urgently make a doctor’s appointment:
- Your symptoms have not disappeared after 3 weeks
- You suddenly feel worse
- You have a high fever and/or chills
- Your child has symptoms that worry you
- You suffer from shortness of breath or chest pains . In case of severe shortness of breath you should call the emergency services (112) .
