Fall is officially here and with it, comes seasonal allergies. From coughing to sneezing, and even that scratchy throat, how can you tell the difference between your allergies and COVID-19?

The answer might not be as simple as it seems. The easiest way to determine the difference is by getting a COVID-19 test.

A fever does not accompany allergies, so if you have one it could be the first sign that you may want to get tested for COVID-19. Experts warn that you can also be sick with COVID-19 and not have a fever, however. As we enter the fall, parents bracing themselves for the usual cold and flu threats now have to be on the lookout for COVID-19 and spiking RSV cases in parts of the country.

Now, the changing of seasons has some people concerned about whether their sniffles are from fall allergies or something more severe. As a first step toward protecting yourself and your children, it is recommended to get tested when someone in the immediate family falls ill.

Social distancing, masking, and washing your hands are always the best practices to keeping from getting sick.

If you feel sick, your first call should be to your primary care provider. Doctors say when it comes to allergies, antihistamines can be very effective. Monoclonal antibody infusions are also effective for people who find themselves with COVID-19, are at high risk, and older than 12.

WATE