Research FAQ: Do You Have a Cold, the Flu, or COVID-19?

How can you tell whether you have a cold, the flu, or COVID-19? A recent article in Prevention Magazine featuring CTSI Director Timothy F. Murphy, MD, outlined some of the symptoms for each.

In the article, Murphy explained that viral illnesses happen, and every situation is different. That’s why if you have any symptoms at all, precautions are important. “You can be walking around with the flu — there are all different levels of severity,” Murphy stated. And since symptoms for colds, the flu, and COVID can be so similar, getting tested or seeing your doctor is key.

What is the best way to lower your risk of getting sick? Murphy said the answer is getting your annual flu shot, as well as the COVID vaccine and booster shots. “[Vaccines] can give partial protection and can turn what would have been a more severe illness into a minor illness,” he explained.

In a separate story, Murphy told WKBW-TV that it is safe to get both shots — the flu vaccine and COVID vaccine or booster — on the same day.

“Many experts are saying that it’s a good idea because it’s two for the price of one,” he said. “You do it in one trip and get it over with. Now is a good time to get the new bivalent booster. It's possible your reaction could be a little strong with two vaccines. … But you are trading a day or two of discomfort for protecting you from potentially two very serious diseases.”

The graphic below (based on information in the Prevention Magazine article) shares some signs for differentiating between cold, flu, and COVID symptoms.