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Is it hay fever or COVID-19?

Oh no, you have just woken up with a runny nose, coughing and sneezing. What is it – allergies or COVID-19? What should you do?

Over the last nine months we have all become too aware of the effects of COVID-19, a respiratory illness triggered by a highly contagious virus. In South Australia at this time we don’t have any cases of community transmitted COVID-19. However, we are well aware of how vigilant we need to be to stop the spread should we have a case.

Seasonal allergies (for example hay fever) are usually triggered by airborne pollen which often leads to allergic rhinitis, affecting the nose and sinuses, and seasonal allergic conjunctivitis, which affects the eyes. In addition, seasonal allergies are can be a chronic condition with symptoms lasting for months! It is thought that over 4.5 million of Australians will suffer from a seasonal allergy.

While both seasonal allergies and COVID-19 may appear similar there are a couple of key symptoms which are different. For instance you usually do not have a fever with hay fever but often do with COVID-19. See the below diagram to compare the symptoms.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has produced a Venn diagram showing the overlap of symptoms between hay fever and COVID-19. (Source: )

Because the symptoms of seasonal allergies and COVID-19 are similar, it may be difficult to tell the difference between them. If you are unsure or possibly have never experienced a seasonal allergy, it is better to speak with your General Practitioner (GP) and determine if you need to be tested for COVID-19. If unsure stay at home and possibly work from home until you have determined if your symptoms are definitely a seasonal allergy and not COVID-19.

In the meantime, if you do have hay fever, try to stay away from pollen sources, avoid mowing the lawn or raking up leaves and grasses. Consider taking medications that may assist you to manage the seasonal allergies and minimise symptoms that may be mistaken for viruses such as COVID-19. Speak with your pharmacist or GP to see what treatment may best assist you to manage your symptoms.

Gesundheit!

Resources

Further information

Please contact the Central HSW Workplace Wellbeing Specialist