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Cold, Flu or COVID-19? Symptoms and Treatments

Published date: January 14, 2021
Updated date: September 21, 2023

In most cases, the symptoms for a cold, flu or COVID-19 are similar and sometimes it's hard to tell the difference. We asked Rebecca Cantu, M.D. a physician from Arkansas Children's and associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, for some tips when it comes to knowing how to treat you and your family members. 

Cold, RSV, COVID or Flu Graphic

Let's break down this cold, flu and COVID-19 infographic. Talk about some of the symptoms and how they can be similar.


There's a lot of similarity in these different illnesses. They can all have some very common symptoms like fever, headache, coughing. If you're having any symptoms, whether you think it's the cold, flu or COVID-19, you need to stay home. You can also call your doctor for advice about getting tested for any or all of these illnesses.

What is the best way to treat a cold or flu?


In most cases, healthy people can be treated symptomatically at home. For a cold, resting, staying hydrated, and taking over the counter meds for a fever will work just fine. For the flu, some people will qualify for Tamiflu, but that's typically up to your doctor. The same treatment applies to the flu: resting, staying away from people, plenty of hydration and taking care of any symptoms like fevers or achiness.

Is it possible to get the flu and COVID-19 at the same time?


Absolutely, you can get a cold, the flu and COVID-19 at the same time! If you have the flu and COVID-19 at the same time, it's very likely to be more severe than either one alone. That's why it's so important to get your flu shot. Plus, wear your mask, wash your hands and stay home if you're sick.