Cold, Flu, COVID or RSV? Here’s what matters.

If Minnesota winters guarantee anything, it’s snow—and, almost always, sniffles. When you have a cough or sore throat, it’s hard to tell if it’s a cold, the flu, COVID-19, or RSV. The truth is, it’s surprisingly tricky to tell one illness from another. And while many of us often try to figure out which virus we’ve caught, the reality is that most respiratory infections look—and act—remarkably similar.

For most of us, what matters most isn’t the specific name of the virus, but how we’re feeling and whether our symptoms are improving or getting worse. Here’s what to keep in mind as seasonal illnesses circulate.

Why do these illnesses all feel alike?

Colds, the flu, COVID-19, and RSV often begin with the same set of symptoms:

• Stuffy or runny nose
• Cough
• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Fever (sometimes)

Although each has characteristic patterns, there is a lot of overlap. That’s why healthcare providers focus less on identifying the exact virus and more on:

• Severity of symptoms
• Duration of symptoms
• Underlying health conditions
• Any signs of complications

Shifting energies here helps keep the focus on getting the right care at the right time, regardless of whether the source is a cold, flu, COVID, or RSV.

What about testing?

Most people with mild viral symptoms do not need to be tested. In fact, testing is no longer as routine as in years past because it rarely changes the treatment plan, and many illnesses resolve with home care. 

However, a test may be helpful if you:

• Are at a higher risk for complications
• Are a caregiver for someone vulnerable
• Have symptoms that become more severe or unusual over time

For most otherwise healthy people, supportive care—easing symptoms and helping your body fight the infection—is the most useful approach.

When to call Welia Health

Of course, there are times when you may be concerned about your symptoms, or if you aren’t feeling quite right, please reach out, especially if you notice:

• Trouble breathing or rapid breathing
• A fever that doesn’t improve after a few days
• Symptoms lasting more than a week
• Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, fewer wet diapers)
• Persistent wheezing or chest pain 
• Any respiratory symptoms in a newborn

Even if symptoms don’t fit neatly into one of these categories, you know your body best—trust your instincts and call if something feels off.

How to feel better at home

Most viral illnesses resolve on their own over time, but rest and supportive care are key to speeding recovery. The following at-home steps can help you ease your symptoms and start to feel better.

• Getting extra rest
• Drinking plenty of fluids
• Using over-the-counter medications as directed
• Running a humidifier for congestion
• Eating warm soups or drinking tea to soothe coughs and sore throats
• Staying home until symptoms improve
• Letting in fresh air when the weather allows

These simple steps can make a big difference in recovery.

How to stay healthy 

The best strategy, of course, is to avoid illness to begin with. A few everyday habits can help you stay healthy and protect those around you:

• Stay up to date on recommended vaccines
• Wash your hands often
• Cover coughs and sneezes
• Keep tissues and hand sanitizer nearby
• Consider wearing a mask if you are in a high-risk setting or caring for someone vulnerable 

The bottom line

Small choices make a big impact during peak virus season.

Here’s to a healthy, happy winter season. And remember, Welia Health is here whenever you need us. Call 320.679.1313 to schedule an appointment at any of our clinics, or visit Pine City Urgent Care.

Pine City Urgent Care Hours

Monday – Friday: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM

During periods of high patient volumes, triage-only visits may be offered.