Is it a cold or COVID-19? Differences in symptoms

Is it a Cold or COVID-19? Summary of Symptom Differences and Latest Variant Trends

Cold vs COVID-19: Key Q&A to Know First

Q1. Can I distinguish between a cold and COVID-19 based on symptoms alone?

It's challenging to differentiate perfectly because many symptoms overlap. However, there are tendencies. If the main symptoms are runny nose, nasal congestion, and sneezing, it's more likely a cold. If fever, cough, severe sore throat, and body aches are prominent, you might suspect COVID-19. Changes in smell or taste are still characteristic signals of COVID-19. But the most reliable way is to get tested.

Q2. When is it good to use a self-test kit if I have symptoms?

You should test immediately when symptoms appear, and even if the result is negative, don't be relieved too soon. It's recommended to test again once or twice at 48-hour intervals. For more accurate results, it's better to get a PCR test (NAAT).

Q3. What variants are currently prevalent?

As of fall 2025, institutions like the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) report that the XFG lineage, nicknamed 'Stratus', and the NB.1.8.1 lineage, called 'Nimbus', are becoming dominant. The World Health Organization (WHO) is also continuously tracking new variants and updating their lists.

Q4. Do new variants have different symptoms?

Overall symptoms are similar to those seen before. Fever, cough, and fatigue are common. However, recent variants have been reported to cause severe sore throat described as 'like being scraped by a razor' or hoarse voice. There is still limited evidence that variants make the illness worse.

Q5. What are the most important guidelines for living with a cold or COVID-19?

The most important thing is to 'rest at home'. Wear a mask to prevent spreading the virus, wash your hands frequently, and ensure good ventilation in your living space. It's particularly important to avoid contact with high-risk groups such as the elderly, those with underlying conditions, and pregnant women.

Every change of season brings runny noses and coughs. While it's easy to dismiss them as just a cold, our experiences over the past few years make us hesitate. After going through the COVID-19 pandemic, we have become more sensitive to every respiratory symptom and alert to the constant emergence of new 'variants.' Is the symptom I am experiencing now just a cold, or is it a signal of another variant virus? Today, we will summarize the subtle differences in symptoms between colds and COVID-19, the characteristics of currently circulating variants, and wise coping strategies we can implement in our daily lives.

Symptoms: Cold vs COVID-19

Both illnesses are respiratory viral infections that have overlapping symptoms, but they differ in the 'weight' of primary symptoms.

A cold usually starts with symptoms in the 'nose.' You may experience a clear runny nose, nasal congestion, and sneezing. Even if you have a fever, it is typically mild, and body aches tend to be lighter than full-body muscle pain.

COVID-19 tends to start with more 'systemic' symptoms than a cold. Sudden fever, dry cough, and severe fatigue that makes you feel heavy are typical. Especially after the Omicron variant, many people report experiencing extreme sore throat that feels 'like being scraped by a razor.' Changes in smell or taste have decreased in frequency but can still be important clues that differentiate COVID-19 from other respiratory diseases.

Episode: Experience of Office Worker Park Jun-hyung

Office worker Park Jun-hyung thought he had a cold because he had a runny nose and sneezing for a few days. However, the next morning, he woke up with a burning sore throat and felt like he had been beaten all over, so he used a self-test kit. The result was positive. "When I only had a runny nose, I thought it was just a cold, but when the severe sore throat and body aches came together, I realized, 'Ah, this is the COVID-19 I've heard about.'" He immediately requested to work from home and focused on resting and recovery for several days.

But why do new variants keep appearing?

In-Depth Exploration 1: How Do Variants Arise and Get Named?

Viral mutations are not special events but rather a natural phenomenon stemming from the virus's survival instinct. When viruses replicate, they copy their genetic information countless times, which can lead to errors (mutations). Most errors are insignificant or detrimental to survival, but very rarely, an 'upgraded' version emerges that enhances transmissibility or better evades our immune system. This version survives and becomes the new dominant strain.

Scientists analyze the viral genetic information collected worldwide to map their lineage and name new branches as they appear. Under major branch names like 'Omicron,' detailed combinations of mutations are named BA.2, BA.2.86, and more recent ones like JN.1 and XFG. The World Health Organization (WHO) evaluates these variants for transmissibility, severity, and immune evasion, designating those needing special monitoring as 'Variants of Interest (VOI)' or 'Variants of Concern (VOC).'

In-Depth Exploration 2: New Challenges in the Post-COVID Era, Long COVID

Some people experience various long-term effects for weeks, months, or even years after recovering from the acute symptoms of COVID-19. This is referred to as 'Long COVID' or 'Post-COVID Syndrome.' Symptoms can vary widely, including chronic fatigue, 'brain fog' (a state of mental cloudiness), persistent cough, chest pain, changes in smell/taste, and feelings of depression or anxiety.

The exact cause of Long COVID is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of residual viral fragments, excessive immune response leading to inflammation, or damage to the autonomic nervous system. Importantly, Long COVID is not 'feigned illness' but a clear medical condition that can severely hinder daily life. If you continue to experience unexplained symptoms after having COVID-19, it's crucial not to suffer in silence but to seek accurate assessment and management from a medical professional.

Episode: Freelancer Kim Ji-soo Experiencing Long COVID

Freelance designer Kim Ji-soo contracted COVID-19 six months ago but still suffers from severe fatigue and brain fog. "I used to be able to work all night, but now if I focus for a short time in the morning, I feel completely drained by the afternoon and can't do anything. The hardest part is when ideas don't come to me, like there's fog in my head." She has recently visited a Long COVID clinic for ongoing counseling and treatment, working to find a balance between work and rest that suits her health condition.

Practical Roadmap: What Should I Do When I’m Sick? (FAQ)

Q. I tested positive. What should I do?

The first thing to do is to stay at home to prevent spreading it to others. If you live with family, try to separate your space, wear a mask, ventilate frequently, and maintain good hand hygiene. Getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated is essential.

Q. When should I go to the hospital?

Most people can recover at home. However, if you experience difficulty breathing, chest pain or pressure, confusion, or a high fever lasting several days, seek medical attention immediately. This is especially important for the elderly or those with underlying conditions.

Q. When can I return to work or school?

Generally, you should return after your fever has subsided and other symptoms have improved. However, even after returning, it's recommended to wear a mask and avoid crowded places for a while to consider others. Following the specific guidelines of each institution is the best practice.

Author Information: The content of this article has been objectively organized based on the official guidelines and latest academic research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), and UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) regarding the differences in symptoms between colds and COVID-19, the latest variant trends, and practical coping strategies.

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