From our Health Services Department

This time of year it is easy to confuse symptoms of seasonal allergies with COVID-19. The list below compares symptoms that may overlap with COVID and seasonal allergies.

Symptom Check: Seasonal Allergies or COVID-19?

• Cough: COVID-19 usually, Allergies sometimes
• Fever: COVID-19 usualy, Allergies never
• Muscle aches: COVID-19 usually, Allergies never
• Tiredness: COVID-19 usually, Allergies sometimes
• Itchy nose, keyes, mouth, or inner ear: COVID-19 never, Allergies usually
• Sneezing: COVID-19 rarely, Allergies usually
• Sore throat: COVID-19 usually, Allergies rarely
• Runny or stuffy nose: COVID-19 usually, Allergies usually
• Pink eye (conjunctivitis): COVID-19 sometimes, Allergies sometimes
• Nausea or vomiting: COVID-19 sometimes, Allergies never
• Diarrhea: COVID-19 sometimes, Allergies never
• New loss of taste or smell: COVID-19 usually (early-often without a runny or stuffy nose,) Allergies sometimes

Also, while COVID-19 can cause shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, seasonal allergies don't usually cause these symptoms unless you have a respiratory condition such as asthma that can be triggered by pollen exposure.

Treatment of seasonal allergies may include over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines, nasal steroid sprays and decongestants, and avoidance of exposure to allergens where possible. Seasonal allergies may last several weeks.