During our ongoing pandemic, it might not be so clear if certain symptoms are due to a cold, allergies, flu, or COVID-19. Respiratory illnesses share so many of the same symptoms it is important to learn the differences so you can get relief.
Symptoms can range from fever, chills, coughing, stuffy nose, body aches, headache, and sore throat.
Allergies are also an important part of the symptoms. Fall allergies range from runny nose, watery eyes, and itching. Most of the allergies don’t cause chills or fever but one must seek testing if they exhibit any of the above symptoms.
It is important to seek testing as soon as one exhibits symptoms in order to determine the cause. It is also important to continue to quarantine while experiencing symptoms and waiting for test results.
Types of Testing
Rapid antigen test is a covid test that can be done at Exceptional which helps in detecting the viral antigen(infection) in the body within 15 minutes. It’s important to take rapid antigen tests from one to five days after the symptoms start.
PCR testing is a covid test that detects the molecules of viral genetic material. You can get testing at Exceptional after experiencing the covid symptoms. It usually takes 24-72 hours to receive the results.
It’s important to take the PCR covid test after 5 days of exhibiting the symptoms of covid like fever, chill, or sore throat. It’s required to take a PCR test as soon as possible if you're in close contact with someone who has tested positive in order to get your status and prevent the spread.
Exceptional also offers VIKOR Respiratory Test which will test for various respiratory illnesses at the same time and takes 24 hours to result.
Differences
There are some important differences to note. The chart below can make it easier to make comparisons between the different respiratory illnesses.
Prevention
It is important to take preventive measures during this time in order to better rule out sometimes similar illnesses. Getting a flu shot yearly is a great way to be safe and sure of what the illness may be. Also getting the covid 19 vaccination will help prevent severe illness. Overall, wearing a mask is the best way to combat respiratory illness.