Symptoms Checker: Do I Have COVID or The Flu?

Do I have A Cold, The Flu or Covid?

Graphic drawing of girl coughing and covering her mouth.

Having symptoms? It may be hard to tell the difference.

Because some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar, it may be hard to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone, and testing may be needed to help confirm a diagnosis. Flu and COVID-19 share many characteristics, but there are some key differences between the two.

Flu symptoms generally come on quickly about 1 to 2 days after exposure. Whereas with Covid-19 symptoms may appear anywhere between 2 and 14 days.

Symptom Checker Grid

Look here and check your symptoms.

How Long Am I Contagious?

With the flu you are likely contagious 1 day before your symptoms show up and up to 7 days after symptoms begin.

With Covid-19 you are likely contagious 2 days before your symptoms show up and for about 10 days after symptoms begin.

When to Seek Emergency Medical Attention

If someone is showing any of these symptoms*, seek emergency medical care immediately:

  • Trouble breathing
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
  • New confusion
  • Inability to wake or stay awake
  • Bluish lips or face

*This list is not all possible symptoms. Please call your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.

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