Cold and flu season is approaching fast, and chances are that someone in your household has already gotten sick. While it may have just been a regular cold, strep throat or COVID-19 could infiltrate your household at any time.

These different illnesses can produce similar symptoms, so it can be hard to distinguish between them all on your own.

That’s where AFC Urgent Care TN comes into play! We are able to run a series of rapid tests that can diagnose you reliably.

Do COVID-19, Strep Throat and the Flu Cause the Same Symptoms?

COVID-19, strep throat and the flu are all infections with similar transmission possibilities. You can get sick from being the unfortunate victim of an uncovered cough or sneeze from an infected person, but you can also get sick from touching an infected surface and then touching your mouth.

All three infections can also share similar symptoms in the beginning. Strep throat is caused by a bacteria and COVID-19 and the flu are both viral, but they can all cause sore throats, body aches, fevers and headaches. This is why getting tested by a professional is crucial for proper treatment.

Rapid Tests We Perform at Our AFC Urgent Care TN Centers

• COVID-19
• Influenza
• Strep throat

What Are the Treatments for Each Infection?

If you come to our center with a sore throat that hurts so badly that it is hard to swallow and your tonsils are swollen, chances are that it is strep. Since strep throat is bacterial, a quick round of antibiotics can help you clear your infection in just a few days.

COVID-19 and the flu are not as easy, unfortunately. Since both are viral infections, rest and hydration are the most reliable treatments as your body fights off the virus. Just take it easy for a few days and avoid contact with others to help slow the spread this season.

COVID-19 Symptoms

• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath
• Runny nose
• Fever

Need help determining what is making you sick? Stop by one of our AFC Urgent Care TN centers for a rapid test.