cold
starts slowly, over a day or two
- runny or stuffy nose
- sneezing, scratchy throat
- low or no fever
what helps: rest, fluids, and honey for a cough. usually better in 7–10 days.
the quick guide
cold
starts slowly, over a day or two
- runny or stuffy nose
- sneezing, scratchy throat
- low or no fever
what helps: rest, fluids, and honey for a cough. usually better in 7–10 days.
flu
hits suddenly, within hours
- fever and chills
- body aches, wiped out
- dry cough, headache
what helps: rest and fluids. flu medicine works best in the first 2 days, so text us early.
strep
starts fast
- very sore throat
- pain when you swallow
- white spots or swollen tonsils
- usually no cough
what helps: you need a quick test. if it’s strep, antibiotics fix it.
covid
can start slow or fast
- any of the signs above
- loss of taste or smell
- tired for days
what helps: take a home test. rest, fluids, and ask about treatment if you’re high-risk.
call 911 if you have trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, or can’t keep fluids down.
Flu shots are often free at campus health centers and pharmacies.