This is a guest blog brought to us by Trinity Health Of New England. Repurposed with permission.
The cold and flu have always been around, but now we also have to be aware of COVID-19 and RSV, which have both become more prevalent in recent years. They are caused by different viruses but are spread and sometimes show in the same ways. Knowing the difference between them all, how to treat them and when to seek medical care can be the challenge.
What’s the difference between the Flu, RSV, COVID-19 and the common cold?
The flu is caused by the influenza virus. It may present with high fevers, coughing, body aches and other respiratory symptoms.
- RSV is respiratory syncytial virus, which impacts the respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and lungs. In most people, it presents like a cold with symptoms such as a cough, runny nose and sometimes a fever. However, in some infants and those over 60, it may lead to more dangerous issues such as pneumonia or bronchiolitis requiring hospitalization.
- COVID-19 is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. Symptoms can include fevers, cough, runny nose, body aches, gastrointestinal distress, and loss of taste and/or smell.
- The common cold is caused by the rhinovirus and typically comes with milder symptoms like runny nose and slight cough. However severe cases may require hospitalization.
Because the symptoms of these respiratory illnesses are similar, the only definitive way to tell the difference is through testing.
Young children and older adults seem to suffer the most when it comes to respiratory viruses. If your loved one has any of the following symptoms, it is time to call your doctor.
- Rapid breathing, wheezing and flaring nostrils
- Chest caving in with each breath
- Shortness of breath/difficulty breathing
- Vomiting for more than 24 hours
- Bloody diarrhea
- Very drowsy
- Lack of appetite/dehydration
- High fever
It can be a challenge to avoid getting one of these illnesses, but we can try. The best ways to do that are:
- Getting vaccinated for flu, COVID and RSV
- Washing hands often using hand sanitizer or soap and water
- Covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
- Wearing a mask when you are ill and need to leave your home
- Social distancing
A unique partnership between Connecticut Children's and Saint Mary's
When it comes to our littlest family members, it’s important to know that Saint Mary’s Hospital’s emergency department is staffed with specially trained pediatric emergency care physicians, in addition Connecticut Children’s experts are located in the same building, just a few floors above.
The unique partnership began in 2009, when Connecticut Children’s first established the inpatient unit at Saint Mary’s. Since then, Saint Mary’s Emergency Department has collaborated closely with the unit establishing an expedited admissions process, with the goal of minimizing the time children spend in the ED. Saint Mary’s Emergency Department Pediatric Services assess and quickly initiate treatment as needed for the child, then ensure a speedy transition for the patient into the Connecticut Children’s inpatient unit, when appropriate.
It's as good a time as any to remember to stay vigilant with basic hygiene like handwashing and preventative measures like vaccines. If you or your loved one is sick and you have questions, you should always call your pediatrician or doctor’s office.