As more cases of coronavirus are confirmed in Nebraska and Iowa and across the country, many more people have been sick with influenza this year. Add allergy sufferers to the mix and similar symptoms can make complying with official requests to self-assess very difficult.
This season alone, the CDC reports that at least 20,000 deaths have been attributed to the flu. Meanwhile, more coronavirus cases are being reported every day.
While officials urge the public to be vigilant about possible signs of coronavirus, similar symptoms can create confusion about what might be the cause.
The American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology reports that the following are symptoms of allergies.
- runny nose, stuffy nose, and sneezing
- wheezing, shortness of breath
- cough
- rashes
- fatigue
- headache
- nausea and vomiting
- fever
The CDC reports that influenza can cause mild to severe illness and at times can lead to death. These are symptoms of the flu.
- fever, or feeling feverish/chills
- cough
- sore throat
- runny or stuffy nose
- muscle or body aches
- headaches
- fatigue (tiredness)
- some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults
The CDC and World Health Organization says the following as symptoms are associated with COVID-19
- cough
- fever
- shortness of breath (The first three may appear 2-14 days after exposure)
- dry cough
- tiredness
- aches and pains
- nasal congestion
- runny nose
- sore throat
- diarrhea