DDPHE Blog: Virus or Seasonal Allergies

Published on April 07, 2024

It can be difficult to know whether a cough, sore throat, or runny nose are caused by a virus or seasonal allergies.

Even if you think your symptoms are allergies, you could also have a respiratory infection. After you cough, sneeze, blow your nose, etc., it's important to wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (if you don’t have access to soap and water, apply hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol). To help avoid spreading germs, some people may choose to wear a mask if they must be around others.

If you have new symptoms or your symptoms get worse, contact a health care provider and ask about testing. Learn about options for at-home COVID-19 testing on the DDPHE website. A fever especially may be a sign of a respiratory infection.

Even if you only have mild symptoms of a respiratory illness, you could still get someone else sick. That illness may be severe for them — especially for babies, young children, older adults, and people who are immunocompromised or have other chronic illnesses. If you are not feeling well, stay home and do your best to avoid interacting with others.

All Denverites aged 6 months and older should get their seasonal flu vaccine and a 2023-2024 COVID-19 vaccine. It’s not too late to get either of these vaccines! It’s safe to get both at the same appointment.

Denverites can find COVID-19 vaccines and flu vaccines at primary care offices, and many pharmacies. Many people, including infants, younger children, and older adults, should also get a pneumococcal vaccine and an immunization for RSV. Immunizations can keep you from getting sick. They can also make your illness milder if you do get sick.

Find additional information about immunizations online.