Respiratory Illness Symptoms

Many respiratory illnesses have similar symptoms including the common cold, COVID-19, flu, and RSV.

Some people with a respiratory illness will not have any symptoms or only a few symptoms. Some people will have severe symptoms. The table below shows some of the more common symptoms of COVID-19, flu, and RSV.

It is impossible to know which illness you have based on symptoms alone. A test can tell you what illness you have. Test within the first few days after symptoms begin.

Call 9-1-1 if you need help right away. For example, if you have trouble breathing, chest pain or pressure, confusion, or bluish lips or face.

Common Symptoms
COVID-19
Flu
RSV
Fever or chills
Symptoms may occur with all 3 illnesses
Cough
Congestion or runny nose
Fatigue (tiredness)
Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
Headache  ✓  ✓  
Muscle or body aches  ✓  ✓  
Sore throat  ✓  ✓  
Nausea or vomiting ✓ ✓   
Diarrhea  ✓ ✓  
Change in or loss of taste or smell  ✓ ✓   
 Decrease in appetite      ✓
 Wheezing      ✓

 

Table Sources

CDC, COVID-19 Symptoms
CDC, Flu Symptoms
CDC, Similarities and Differences Between Flu vs. COVID-19
CDC, RSV Symptoms

Long COVID

About This Guidance

These recommendations are based on CDC recommendations for preventing COVID-19, flu, and RSV in most people. The updated CDC guidance (March 2024) provides a unified approach to addressing risks from these common respiratory viral illnesses.

You may need to work with people in your household and follow additional policies and guidance for other settings (like employer, school, nursing home, daycare, and/or government).

If you or people in your household are at high risk for serious illness from respiratory infections, ask your healthcare provider about more ways to stay protected.

 

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