Respiratory infections: Cold, flu, and COVID-19

During the winter months, respiratory illness such as cold, flu, and COVID-19, tend to circulate widely. Why? Because people move their events and gatherings indoors where respiratory viruses can spread more easily. The good news is that there are things that we can do to reduce our chances of getting or spreading respiratory viruses, including washing our hands frequently, staying home when you are sick, and getting vaccinated.

Influenza (flu)

Learn about flu symptoms, how to avoid the flu, where you can get a flu shot and more.

Learn more about Influenza (flu)

COVID-19

Learn about COVID-19 treatment, vaccines, testing in Monterey County and more.

Learn more about COVID-19

Is it cold, flu or COVID-19?

Wondering how to tell the difference between cold and flu, and COVID-19? Use this handy chart to help distinguish your symptoms:

Signs and symptoms
Cold
Flu
COVID-19*

No symptoms

Never

Never

Common

Symptom start

Gradual; symptoms peak within two to three days and last for up to 10–14 days

Abrupt; symptoms typically develop one to four days after infection

Gradual or abrupt, with symptoms typically starting five days after being infected but can range from 2–14 days

Fever

Rare

Usual; lasts three to four days

Sometimes

Aches

Slight

Usual; often severe

Usual; often severe

Chills

Uncommon

Fairly common

Fairly common

Fatigue, weakness

Sometimes

Usual

Usual

Sneezing

Common

Sometimes

Sometimes

Chest discomfort, cough

Mild to moderate; hacking cough

Common; can be severe

Common, can be severe

Stuffy, runny nose

Common

Sometimes

Sometimes

Sore throat

Common

Sometimes

Sometimes

Headache

Rare

Common

Common

Vomiting and diarrhea

Rare

More common in children than adults

More common in children than adults

Change or loss of taste or smell

Not applicable

Not applicable

Common

*It is possible to catch the flu, a cold, and COVID-19 at the same time and only a test will confirm if you are infected.

Free flu vaccine clinics

Flu shots are available in the community at most doctor’s offices, at most retail pharmacies, and through Monterey County Public Health vaccination clinics.

View free clinics [English PDF]

View free clinics [Spanish PDF]

Get a COVID-19 vaccine

Make an appointment near you at California Department of Public Health's COVID-19 vaccine scheduling website.

Make an appointment

Flu and COVID-19: Frequently asked questions

Get answers to frequently asked questions about cold, flu, and COVID-19.

Learn more

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