Is it allergies or COVID-19?

About 1 in 4 children experience seasonal allergies. Allergy symptoms can spike at certain times of the year and when pollen counts are high. Because allergies and COVID-19 share some symptoms, many families wonder if their child's sniffle or sore throat is simply pollen-related or if it could be a sign of COVID‑19.

"Symptoms of allergies and mild COVID‑19 infections can be similar, and it can be hard to distinguish between the two without testing," says Jeffrey Chambliss, M.D., Pediatric Allergist at Children's Health℠ and Assistant Professor at UT Southwestern. "If you have any concerns about your child's symptoms or if you suspect your child could have COVID‑19, it's best to get tested."

Learn more about how to tell the difference between seasonal allergies and COVID‑19 and the best ways to keep your child healthy.

What are the differences between seasonal allergies and COVID‑19?

While COVID‑19 and seasonal allergies can cause similar symptoms, there are differences between the two conditions. COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Seasonal allergies are caused by the immune system's overactive response to airborne pollens released by trees, grasses and weeds.

Shared symptoms of allergies and COVID‑19

Many symptoms of seasonal allergies overlap with COVID‑19 symptoms. Both conditions can cause:

• Congestion

• Runny nose

• Coughing

• Sore throat

• Fatigue

• Headache

COVID‑19 can also cause shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. This is not a common symptom of allergies but can occur in children who have a respiratory condition like asthma that is triggered by pollen.

Allergy symptoms vs. COVID‑19 symptoms

While COVID‑19 and allergies share certain symptoms, there are some differences.

Seasonal allergies often cause sneezing and can lead to itchy or watery eyes. These are not typical symptoms of COVID‑19.

"If your child has experienced allergies during a specific time of year in the past and their current symptoms are similar to what they've experienced before – then it may be from allergies again," says Dr. Chambliss. "Proactively treating your child's allergy symptoms may help clear up some confusion. But if your child hasn't had allergies before or if their symptoms seem different, it's best to get your pediatrician's advice."

In general, the following symptoms are more likely to be associated with COVID‑19 – and not allergy-related:

• Fever

• Chills

• Muscle or body aches

• Loss of taste or smell

• Nausea or vomiting

• Diarrhea

If your child is experiencing one or more of these symptoms seen in COVID‑19, contact your pediatrician. They can review symptoms and let you know if your child should get a COVID‑19 test.

How can I prevent seasonal allergy symptoms?

You can reduce your child's seasonal allergy symptoms by limiting their exposure to pollen. Take steps to minimize allergy symptoms, including:

• Staying indoors and keeping windows and doors closed during the peak pollen season

• Using a HEPA filter

• Vacuuming frequently

• Washing clothes and bathing after spending time outdoors

• Using an over-the-counter saline nasal rinse or spray (to flush out pollens)

See additional ways to help reduce allergy symptoms in children.

How can I prevent COVID‑19?

The best way to prevent COVID‑19 is to get a COVID‑19 vaccine and booster shot if you are eligible. You and your family can also take steps to protect against the spread of the virus, such as washing hands and wearing masks in public indoor areas when COVID‑19 community levels are high.

Getting tested for COVID‑19

If your child is showing symptoms of COVID‑19 or you think they may have been exposed, it's best to act cautiously to prevent the spread of COVID‑19. A test can help you determine if your child has COVID‑19, or if something else is causing their symptoms. See tips to help prepare a child for a COVID‑19 test.

If your child's symptoms are not due to COVID‑19 and are allergy-related, your pediatrician can recommend treatments and tips to help you manage their symptoms.

See more COVID‑19 resources

Children's Health is committed to remaining a trusted source of health information and care for you and your family during this time. See more resources to keep your family healthy at the Children's Health COVID‑19 hub.