“Tripledemic”: Understanding the Symptoms of RSV, Flu & COVID-19

Experts warn of a “tripledemic” threat of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza (flu) and COVID-19 this winter. With several viruses circulating, you may worry about every cough or sneeze and wonder what you have. Since these illnesses are all caused by viruses that affect your respiratory system, they also share some symptoms. This can make it challenging to know what you may be sick with when feeling under the weather.

Here are the differences between RSV, the flu and COVID-19:

Because there is some overlap of symptoms, it may be difficult to determine whether you have RSV, the flu or COVID-19 without being tested. As such, if you’re not feeling well, stay home and call your doctor to explain your symptoms or take an at-home COVID-19 test, if available to you.