Cold, Flu, or COVID-19? How to Identify Symptoms and Best Self-Care Tips for Recovery

With the colder months come sniffles, sore throats, and runny noses—leaving many wondering, “Is it a cold, the flu, or COVID-19?” Because these three illnesses share many overlapping symptoms, it’s often tricky to identify which one you’re dealing with. Knowing the difference can help you take the right steps toward recovery and prevent spreading illness to others.

In this post, we’ll break down the unique symptoms of each illness, offer guidance on how to care for yourself at home, and discuss when it’s time to seek medical care.