SYMPTOMS
All three viruses can cause illness ranging from mild to severe. Because symptoms often overlap, it can be hard to tell the difference between flu and COVID-19 without testing.
If you have symptoms, call the University Health Center at 402.472.5000 for evaluation and possible testing.
| Signs/Symptoms | COVID-19 | Flu | Cold |
|---|---|---|---|
| Symptom onset | Varies | Abrupt | Gradual |
| Fever | Often | Often | Rare |
| Cough | Often (usually dry) | Often | Often |
| Aches | Sometimes | Often | Slightly |
| Sneezing/stuffy nose | Rare | Sometimes | Often |
| Sore throat | Sometimes | Sometimes | Often |
| Chest discomfort/cough | Often | Often | Sometimes |
| Loss of taste and/or smell | Often | Rare | Rare |
TREATMENT
Antibiotics treat bacterial infections, so they will not help because colds, flu and COVID-19 are viral infections. Certain over-the-counter items can help manage symptoms and are available for purchase at the University Health Center pharmacy. Getting rest and drinking plenty of fluids helps you recover as well.
Antiviral medications for COVID-19 and the flu are typically prescribed only for individuals at higher risk, such as older adults or those with weakened immune systems.
| Symptom | Over-the-Counter Medication | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Fever, sore throat and/or pain relief | Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) OR Aleve OR Acetaminophen (Tylenol) | 200mg one to two tabs every six to eight hours 1 tab every 12 hours 325mg, one to two tabs every six hours (no more than eight tabs per day) |
| Congestion of sinuses, ears and/or chest | Pseudoephedrine (Sudafed 12 hour) Only available behind the counter at pharmacies | Take a.m. and p.m. while congested |
| Allergy symptoms or mild congestion | Diphenhydramine 25mg (Benadryl) Loratadine (Claritin) Cetirizine (Zyrtec) | One to two tabs every six hours One tab daily |
| Excess mucus | Guaifenesin (Mucinex) Guaifenesin/Pseudoephedrine (Mucinex D) Guaifenesin/Dextromethorphan (Mucinex DM) | One tab every 12 hours D = a decongestant DM = a cough suppressant |
| Cough | Dextromethorphan (Delsym 12h) Guaifenesin/Dextromethorphan (Robitussin DM) | Take as directed on the label |
| Dry sinuses | Nasal saline washes/sprays | Take as directed on the label |
WHEN TO SEE THE DOCTOR
Call the University Health Center at 402.472.5000 if…
- Your fever is greater than 103°F and does not improve with medication for over 24 to 48 hours
- You’re having trouble keeping food or fluids down
- It hurts to swallow
- Your cough persists for 10 or more days
- Your congestion or headache lingers
- You experience breathing difficulty or chest pain
Learn about your after hours options.
If you have questions about your symptoms or think you need to see the doctor, call the phone nurse: 402.472.5000.
PREVENTIVE CARE TIPS
- Get vaccinated for COVID-19 and get your flu shot every year (free for students at the health center)
- Wash your hands frequently with soap or use hand sanitizers containing ethyl alcohol.
- Disinfect high-touch surfaces, including your cellphone, laptop, light switches, door handles, etc.
- Don’t reuse or keep tissues; throw them away after use.
- Try not to touch your nose, mouth or eyes because this can spread germs.
- Don’t share drinks or food, and try to keep items like cellphones, remotes, laptops, etc. to yourself.
SELF-CARE TIPS
- Self-monitor for symptoms and stay home if you are ill.
- Buy over-the-counter supplies to help you manage symptoms.
- Increase your fluid intake.
- Rest as much as possible.
- Don’t take double doses of any medications, and read all labels and packaging carefully.
- Seek emergency medical care if your symptoms are severe (chest pain, shortness of breath, persistently high fever of over 103°F, etc.).