Understanding RSV, Flu, COVID, and the Common Cold: How Are They Different?

At the Children’s Clinic in Jackson, TN, we know it can be hard to figure out what’s causing your child’s symptoms when they have a stuffy nose, cough, or fever. Is it the flu? Could it be COVID-19? Or is it respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)? These respiratory illnesses share similar symptoms, but understanding the differences can help.

Here’s a closer look at four common childhood illnesses caused by viruses—COVID-19, flu, the common cold, and RSV—and how to recognize them.

Symptoms of RSV

RSV is a common virus in children, and its symptoms can include:

  • Fever

  • Cough

  • Fatigue

  • Stuffy nose

  • Sneezing

  • Shortness of breath

  • Wheezing or grunting

  • Flaring nostrils

  • Fast or shallow breathing

  • Poor feeding or no appetite

You may also notice signs like chest caving in under or between the ribs or the head bobbing with each breath. RSV symptoms typically peak between days 3 and 5 and last about 7 to 14 days.

Symptoms of Other Common Respiratory Illnesses

  • Flu: Symptoms can include fever, chills, headache, body aches, fatigue, dry cough, stuffy nose, and sore throat. Some children may also experience vomiting or diarrhea. Symptoms often appear 1 to 4 days after exposure.

  • COVID-19: COVID symptoms can vary and include fever, cough, fatigue, body aches, congestion, shortness of breath, sore throat, sneezing, vomiting, diarrhea, or even loss of taste or smell. These symptoms may show up 2 to 14 days after infection.

  • Common Cold: Symptoms usually include a stuffy nose, sore throat, sneezing, cough, fatigue, and sometimes a mild fever. Children can experience about 6 to 10 colds per year.

When to Call Your Pediatrician

Seek medical advice if your child shows any of these symptoms:

  • Rapid or labored breathing

  • Wheezing, grunting, or flaring nostrils

  • Chest caving in with each breath

  • Vomiting for more than 24 hours

  • Bloody diarrhea

  • Severe drowsiness or appearing very ill

  • Poor feeding or signs of dehydration

  • Fever above 104°F in older children, above 100.4°F in babies under 2 months old, or a fever above 103°F lasting more than 24 hours

Can Your Child Catch More Than One Virus?

Yes, it’s possible for children to have multiple infections at once. For example, a child can contract both flu and COVID-19 simultaneously. Secondary illnesses, like bronchiolitis, pneumonia, or ear infections, are also common in children battling respiratory viruses.

If symptoms overlap or worsen, your pediatrician may recommend testing to confirm the diagnosis.

Tips to Prevent Respiratory Illnesses

At the Children’s Clinic in Jackson, TN, we emphasize prevention. Immunizations are critical to protecting your child and others in the community.

  • Flu Vaccine: Recommended yearly for everyone 6 months and older. Get vaccinated early in flu season, which can last through May.

  • COVID-19 Vaccine: Updated vaccines are available for everyone 6 months and older. Ask your pediatrician about the best timing for your child.

  • RSV Immunization: Nirsevimab is recommended for babies under 8 months old during their first RSV season and some children entering their second RSV season. Pregnant women may also receive the RSVpreF vaccine to protect their newborns.

Other preventive steps include teaching children to cover their mouths and noses when coughing or sneezing, properly disposing of tissues, wearing masks in crowded areas, and washing hands regularly with soap and water or sanitizer.

Stay Proactive

If you have any concerns about your child’s symptoms, don’t hesitate to call the Children’s Clinic in Jackson, TN. Staying up-to-date on immunizations and routine checkups is essential to keeping your little one healthy and protected from preventable illnesses.

Your child’s health is our top priority—let us know how we can help!

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