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Is it COVID, the Flu, or RSV? How to Tell the Difference and What to Do Next.


young woman sitting on floor blowing her nose into a tissue while her dog looks on

As the cooler months approach, illnesses like COVID-19, the flu, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) become more common. When you start feeling unwell, figuring out which illness you're dealing with can be tricky. Understanding the symptoms can help you take the right steps to protect yourself and others.


Key Symptoms of Each Illness

COVID-19

COVID symptoms can vary widely but may include:

  • Fever or chills

  • Cough

  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

  • Fatigue

  • Muscle or body aches

  • Sore throat

  • Loss of taste or smell (less common with newer variants)

  • Headache

  • Congestion or runny nose

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Diarrhea


What to Do: If you suspect COVID, get tested immediately. Taylorville Family Medicine Sick Clinic at Bear Creek offers COVID testing M- F on a walk-in basis. At-home rapid tests are also widely available. Testing can help you isolate early to avoid spreading the virus. Rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications may help alleviate symptoms but seek medical attention if breathing becomes difficult or symptoms worsen.


Influenza (Flu)

Flu often comes on suddenly and includes symptoms such as:

  • Fever or feeling feverish/chills

  • Cough

  • Sore throat

  • Runny or stuffy nose

  • Muscle or body aches

  • Headaches

  • Fatigue (tiredness)

  • Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children)


What to Do: At Taylorville Family Medicine's Sick Clinic at Bear Creek, we provide convenient walk-in testing for the flu. If you suspect you have the flu, it's important to rest and stay hydrated. Over-the-counter medications can help alleviate aches and fever, but if you test positive for the flu, your doctor may prescribe antiviral drugs to aid in your recovery.


To minimize your risk during flu season, consider getting your annual flu shot. If your symptoms worsen or you experience trouble breathing, persistent chest pain, or confusion, please seek medical care immediately. Your health is our priority!


RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)

RSV often affects young children and older adults more severely. It typically presents with:

  • Runny nose

  • Decrease in appetite

  • Cough, which may progress to wheezing

  • Fever

  • Sneezing


What to Do: In mild cases, RSV can be treated at home with rest, hydration, and medications to reduce fever. However, it can lead to severe respiratory issues, particularly in infants or elderly individuals. If you or someone you're caring for shows signs of severe difficulty breathing, bluish skin color, or extreme lethargy, getting tested at the Taylorville Family Medicine Sick Clinic at Bear Creek or seeking medical attention immediately is critical.


When Should You Seek Medical Attention?

Regardless of which illness you suspect, it's important to seek care if you experience:

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Persistent chest pain or pressure

  • Confusion or inability to stay awake

  • Bluish lips or face (especially in children and elderly adults)


Where to Seek Care

If you're feeling unwell, and are unsure if you have COVID, flu, and RSV; or how to tell the difference, Taylorville Family Medicine Sick Clinic is here to help. Whether you need testing for COVID, the flu, or RSV, or if you're experiencing symptoms and want medical advice, our dedicated providers, who already have access to your complete medical history as a Taylorville Family Medicine patient, can offer prompt and effective care. With walk-in services available, you can receive the support you need without an appointment.


Prevention Tips for Fall and Winter

  • Get vaccinated for both COVID-19 and the flu.

  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.

  • Wear a mask in crowded indoor spaces, especially during flu and RSV season.

  • Stay home when you're feeling unwell to prevent spreading illness to others.



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Taylorville Family Medicine
WINCHESTER SQUARE
7700 Hwy 69 S, Tuscaloosa, AL 35405

Sick Clinic at Bear Creek
TAYLORVILLE CORNERS
601 Bear Creek Rd. Tuscaloosa, AL 35405

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