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(WXYZ) – Fall is almost here, and with it comes allergies. Unfortunately, the season also coincides with a global pandemic. The coronavirus outbreak could make it difficult to tell the difference between allergy symptoms and COVID-19.
There are symptoms common to allergies and COVID-19, such as cough, sore throat, shortness of breath, fatigue, and loss of taste or smell.
But, there are some major differences between the two. First of all, if you are using a temperature, it is not allergies. A fever is usually one of the first symptoms of coronavirus.
Another telltale sign that these aren’t allergies? Have diarrhea.
And, keep in mind that COVID-19 tends to affect the whole body, unlike allergies.
On the other hand, sneezing and itchy eyes, nose, throat, and ears can most likely be attributed to environmental allergies.
If you suffer from fall allergies every year, you know better than anyone how it affects you. So if you experience any unusual symptoms, contact your healthcare professional for the appropriate testing. If it turns out you have COVID-19, you’ll want to quarantine it to prevent the virus from spreading.
Is there a difference in the duration of allergy symptoms compared to the coronavirus?
Yes, that’s another clue of what’s hurting you. Allergies will likely last all season or until you treat them with medication. In most cases of coronavirus, symptoms usually last a few weeks. Of course, in more severe cases the symptoms will last longer and may require hospitalization.
Are people with allergies more at risk of contracting COVID-19?
The main thing that could make people with allergies more likely to catch diseases like COVID-19 is that they frequently touch their faces. And the odds increase during an epidemic in their community. Think about it. When you have allergies, you tend to touch or scratch your eyes and wipe or blow your nose. So if you touch an infected surface and then touch your face, it could spread the virus. The answer? Wash your hands often. Or use hand sanitizer if soap and water are not readily available.
Additional information and resources on the coronavirus:
Click here for a page with resources including an overview of COVID-19 from the CDC, details of Michigan cases, a timeline of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s orders since the outbreak, the impact of the coronavirus on Southeast Michigan, and links to more information from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, CDC and WHO.
Display a global coronavirus tracker with data from Johns Hopkins University.
See full coverage on our Continuous cover page of the coronavirus.
Visit our The Rebound Detroit, a place where we work to help those financially affected by the coronavirus. We have all the information on everything that is available to help you get through this crisis and how to access it.
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