How to tell if you have allergies or COVID-19

Differences between allergies and COVID-19

Allergies are a reaction to something in your environment, like pollen, pet dander, or dust⁵. Allergies are not contagious. COVID-19 however, is a contagious disease caused by a virus.

While both allergies and COVID-19 symptoms can feel the same, there are some key differences you should understand to help you determine which may be causing your symptoms. However, the best way to know for sure if you have COVID-19 is to get tested. It is recommended to reach out to your Healthcare Provider to know for sure if you have allergies.

Symptoms of both allergies and COVID-19

Here are some of the symptoms that are common to both allergies and COVID-19:

Cough^1,2,3

Runny or stuffy nose^1,2,3

Headaches^1,2,3

Symptoms like sore throat and loss of taste or smell are also much more common with COVID-19 than with allergies. You may feel a sore throat with allergies, but this is likely caused by post-nasal drip.

COVID-19 can cause shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. These are not typically symptoms of seasonal allergies, unless you have asthma that can be triggered by pollen exposure⁴.

Allergies vs COVID-19 symptoms

Symptoms more common with COVID-19 than allergies include:

Nausea¹

Diarrhea¹

Vomiting¹

Fever/chills¹

Muscle or body aches¹

Symptoms of allergies but not COVID-19 include:

Sneezing^2,3

Itchy nose, eyes, mouth, or inner ear^2,3

Watery eyes^2,3

How to tell if It’s COVID-19 or allergies

If you're not sure whether you have allergies or COVID-19, here are some things to consider besides your symptoms:

• Have you been recently exposed to someone with COVID-19?
• Do your symptoms start to improve when you take over-the-counter allergy medication, such as Zyrtec®?
• Have you been taking allergy medication, but your symptoms aren't improving?

Seasonal considerations

The time of year can also be a clue to help determine the cause of your symptoms.

• Allergies are most common when pollen levels are high. Many people experience allergies in the spring while others may be afflicted in the summer, fall or even winter depending on their triggers.⁶
• Viruses like COVID-19 can spread at any time of year but spread faster in cold weather.

Testing and professional guidance

If you're still not sure whether you have allergies or COVID-19, the best thing to do is to get tested for COVID-19. You can get a PCR test at a doctor's office or urgent care clinic, or you can buy an at-home antigen test¹.

If you think you might have allergies, talk to your doctor. They can confirm whether you have seasonal allergies and recommend the best treatment for your symptoms.

Managing your allergy symptoms

If you have allergies, there are things you can do to manage your symptoms and reduce your risk of confusion with ailments with similar symptoms, such as COVID-19:

Avoid allergy triggers

Limit your exposure to triggers, such as pollens or mold, as much as possible. Keep windows and doors closed during allergy season and stay indoors during peak pollen times. Take a shower and change your clothes after outdoor activities.

Medication for symptom relief

Over-the-counter medications like the Zyrtec® or Zyrtec-D® can help alleviate symptoms.

Lifestyle changes

Reduce your exposure to allergens at home by vacuuming and dusting regularly, changing your bedding and towels often, and using a HEPA filter in your home.

Talk to a healthcare provider

If your allergy symptoms persist, talk to your doctor. They can recommend a personalized treatment plan.

FAQ about COVID-19 and allergies:

Can allergies cause a fever or chills?

Although seasonal allergies are often called “hay fever”, allergies do not cause fevers or chills.^2,7 However, fevers are often a symptom of other illnesses like COVID-19 and the flu⁸.

Can COVID-19 cause sneezing?

Although sneezing is not a common symptom of COVID-19, it is a common symptom of allergies.

Can allergies cause congestion?

Yes, allergies, viruses, and dust particles can all lead to nasal congestion or a stuffy nose. Learn more about congestion, its causes, and how to get relief.

What if you have allergies and COVID-19?

If you have both allergies and a confirmed case of COVID-19, you should follow the recommended CDC COVID-19 guidelines, prioritize your health and safety, take steps to manage your allergy symptoms, and seek medical advice when needed. While there is no “cure” for the virus or allergies, you can manage the symptoms you’re feeling with over-the-counter medications or prescription treatments⁹, rest¹⁰, and staying hydrated^{9,10, 11, 12}.