Covid VS Flu VS RSV

The holiday season brings joy and fun, but it can also be accompanied by seasonal illnesses. We understand some symptoms can be similar when dealing with COVID-19, Flu, and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus).

One of the most common questions we hear is “How can you tell the difference?” We’ve created the above guide to help parents have a better understanding of these three viruses.  Keep in mind- this table shows the most common symptoms for the three viruses but that does not mean symptoms not checked couldn’t appear. 

Two symptoms all three illnesses share in common is cough and fever. After that, differences may vary depending on how your child’s body reacts. Testing may also be helpful and is recommended by the CDC.   

“Can my child get more than one illness at the same time?” The answer is yes.  While it is uncommon, it is possible to have multiple viruses at one time. It is important to remember that if your child tests negative for COVID-19 and flu, they do not necessarily need an RSV test as well. To learn why, click here.

Viruses do not respond to antibiotics, therefore it is important to know the common symptoms and have your child evaluated by a health care provider. Any viral illness has the potential to turn into a secondary bacterial infection such as pneumonia.  If you have questions or concerns regarding any symptom your child is having this winter season, contact your pediatrician or bring your child into one of the Little Spurs Urgent Care San Antonio or Dallas locations for evaluation and testing.   

Little Spurs Pediatric Urgent Care opened in 2006 in San Antonio, Texas. With multiple locations in San Antonio and Dallas, they are open seven days a week with extended evening hours and see walk-in patients or through an online check-in system. They accept most commercial insurance and Medicaid plans.