COVID-19 vs. Flu vs. RSV: Exactly how to tell the difference in between respiratory infections

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) has actually long been identified as a significant risk to infant health and wellness. RSV is the most common reason for bronchiolitis (inflammation of the little air passages in the lung) and pneumonia (infection of the lungs). No prevention exists for all babies. Research published previously this year currently recommends that a brand-new preventative option might have the ability to lower extreme RSV infection and hospitalisations.

Throughout cold and flu period, it helps to know the usual signs and symptoms and how to stay clear of spreading illness to those around you. With the raising cases of COVID-19, recognizing the distinction between typical respiratory infections and your treatment options is even more vital. In this blog, we provide details to assist you get ready for the upcoming respiratory virus season.

What is the difference between the flu, COVID-19, and RSV?

The flu, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) are all very infectious respiratory infections brought on by viruses: The flu by influenza virus, COVID-19 by SARS-CoV-2 virus, and RSV by respiratory syncytial virus. It is possible for a person to be infected with numerous viruses at the same time.

What causes the flu?

The flu is caused by the influenza virus and spreads quickly during the cold weather when people hang out together indoors. There are several strains of influenza virus, and the virus can transform from year to year, which is why you should obtain a flu vaccine yearly.

What causes COVID-19?

COVID-19 is the disease caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. The World Health Organization (WHO) named the disease on February 11, 2020. Before this, SARS-CoV-2 had not been seen in humans. 

What causes RSV?

RSV is caused by the respiratory syncytial virus, a highly contagious virus that can infect kids and adults. In adults and older children, RSV is commonly a moderate health problem really comparable to the cold. In infants and the elderly, the symptoms can be far more serious.

What are the symptoms of the flu, COVID-19, and RSV?

According to the CDC, the flu and COVID-19 share very similar symptoms, and it might be difficult to tell which of the two you have. It can take much longer for individuals contaminated with SARS-CoV-2 to show signs and symptoms and people stay infectious longer than with the flu. A symptom that seems to be special to COVID-19 is loss of taste or smell. Both viruses can create:

• Fevers
• Chills
• Headaches
• Cough
• Muscular tissue pain
• Tiredness
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lack of breath
• Runny nose
• Sore throat

Palm Beach Research Center is actively enrolling patients who believe they may have RSV infection and experiencing symptoms. If you test positive for RSV, you may be enrolled into a clinical research study in which you can get treatment and receive compensation for your time and travel for follow-ups. If you’d like to learn more, you can visit the website and see if you pre-qualify online.