Are the new COVID symptoms different from a cold or the flu?

Are the new COVID symptoms different from a cold or the flu?

Since COVID-19 first appeared, the virus has continued to change. As new variants emerge, health authorities have updated the list of “new COVID symptoms” to reflect what people are experiencing today. It can be hard to tell COVID apart from the common cold or flu, especially when symptoms overlap. This guide breaks down key differences, so you know what to watch for and when to seek help.

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What counts as “new COVID symptoms”?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) regularly review data as COVID variants evolve. Some symptoms once considered rare are now more common. Today’s leading signs of COVID-19 include:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Nasal congestion or runny nose
• Muscle or body aches
• New loss of taste or smell (less common with some variants)
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

While many overlap with cold or flu, the pattern and combination often differ. For example, gastrointestinal issues (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) are more likely with COVID than a typical cold, and loss of taste or smell still stands out for COVID—though it’s less universal than in earlier waves.

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How do cold, flu and new COVID symptoms compare?

Below is a side-by-side look at key features of each illness. Individual experiences vary, but this gives a general roadmap.

Common Cold

• Gradual onset
• Sneezing, runny or stuffy nose
• Mild cough
• Sore throat
• Rare fever
• Mild headache or fatigue

Seasonal Flu

• Sudden onset (within hours)
• High fever (often 100°F–104°F)
• Severe aches and chills
• Intense fatigue
• Dry cough
• Headache
• Sometimes vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children)

New COVID Symptoms

• Variable onset (may start mild, then spike)
• Fever and chills (varies by person)
• Persistent cough (dry or productive)
• Significant fatigue
• Headache (often moderate to severe)
• Sore throat, nasal congestion or runny nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Gastrointestinal symptoms more frequent than cold or flu
• Loss of taste or smell (still a strong warning sign)

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What makes “new” COVID different from a cold?

Because COVID and colds are both respiratory viruses, they share many features. Here’s how you can tell them apart:

• Fever: Rare with a cold, common with COVID.
• Fatigue: Mild in a cold, often pronounced with COVID.
• Body aches: Unusual in a cold, more frequent in COVID.
• Gastrointestinal issues: Almost never in a cold; some COVID cases report nausea, diarrhea.

If you feel off for a day or two with mostly nasal symptoms and no fever, a cold is more likely. But if fever or muscle aches hit quickly—or you suddenly lose taste or smell—it’s prudent to assume COVID until proven otherwise.

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What makes “new” COVID different from the flu?

Flu and COVID can both cause fever, cough and body aches, but there are distinctions:

• Onset speed: Flu typically hits hard and fast (you’ll know within hours). New COVID sometimes builds slowly over several days.
• Loss of smell/taste: Uncommon in flu, still seen in COVID.
• Gastrointestinal symptoms: Can appear in both, but diarrhea and nausea are now more often reported in COVID.
• Vaccination impacts: Flu shot reduces severity and duration. COVID vaccines (and boosters) cut odds of serious illness, but breakthrough infections can still cause noticeable symptoms.

Ultimately, testing is the most reliable way to distinguish flu from COVID, especially if you’re at risk for complications or need to make work-or-school decisions.

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When to test, rest and isolate

If you suspect COVID based on symptoms or exposure:

1. Take a home rapid antigen test.
2. If that’s positive, isolate according to local health guidance.
3. If negative but symptoms persist, repeat in 24–48 hours or seek a PCR test.
4. Rest, hydrate and monitor your symptoms closely.

You might also try a free, online symptom check, using the doctor approved Ubie Symptom Checker to help decide if you need testing or medical care.

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Managing mild cases at home

Most people with mild new COVID symptoms recover at home. General self-care includes:

• Rest and limit activity
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Use fever reducers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen) as needed
• Soothe sore throat with warm salt water gargles
• Use a humidifier or steamy shower for congestion

Watch for warning signs that suggest you need medical attention (see next section).

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Warning signs—when to seek immediate help

Although we don’t want to cause undue anxiety, it’s vital to know what could be life-threatening:

• Trouble breathing or shortness of breath at rest
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
• New confusion or inability to awaken
• Bluish lips or face
• Severe dehydration (dizziness, minimal urination)

If you experience any of these, call emergency services or head to your nearest emergency department right away.

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Speak to a doctor if…

Even if you’re not in crisis, it’s wise to contact a healthcare provider if:

• You’re over 65 or have chronic health conditions (diabetes, heart or lung disease).
• Symptoms worsen after a few days at home.
• You have moderate to severe symptoms that interfere with daily life.
• You’re pregnant or immunocompromised.

Telehealth options, including virtual visits, make it easier than ever to get professional advice without leaving home.

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Key takeaways

• Variants have shifted the “new COVID symptoms” toward more headache, sore throat, congestion and GI issues.
• Colds tend to be milder—mostly nasal symptoms, little fever or body ache.
• Flu strikes quickly with high fever and severe aches; COVID may build more gradually.
• Loss of taste or smell, while less common now, still points strongly to COVID.
• Testing remains the gold standard for diagnosis.
• Use self-care for mild cases, but monitor for warning signs.
• Consider a free, online symptom check, using the doctor approved Ubie Symptom Checker if you’re unsure.
• Always speak to a doctor about anything that could be life-threatening or serious.

Staying informed and prepared can help you navigate cold, flu or COVID with confidence—and get you back to feeling like yourself as soon as possible.