It is not easy to distinguish between these. Clinically, testing is the only way to confirm whether or not you have COVID-19. But, currently, testing is not done to scale to allow wider diagnosis at earlier stages.
The symptoms of a common cold usually start within 48 hours of contact. Symptoms include: a runny nose, sneezing, and a sore throat. The common cold tends to last for 5 to 7 days.
The symptoms of influenza (flu) usually start within 48 hours of contact. Symptoms include: a severe sore throat, a dry hacking cough, and aching of the body. The flu tends to last for 7 to 10 days.
Please see question 5 for COVID-19 symptoms.
by Dr Sukhdev Singh, Sikh Doctors Association
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