Is it Allergies or COVID-19?

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Published: December 3, 2025

a woman with tree pollen allergies blows her nose into a tissue

Your throat feels scratchy and you’re coughing. You have a runny or stuffy nose and you’re struggling to breathe well. Are you dealing with seasonal allergies or could it be COVID-19 (coronavirus disease)?

Because the two share several symptoms, it’s important to know the differences so you can take the right steps for care and prevention.

Allergies are caused by your immune system reacting to an exposure to an allergen, such as pollen or mold. For many, symptoms tend to occur at certain times of year or seasons, such as spring or fall. Allergies are not contagious.

COVID-19 is a contagious respiratory illness that is easily transmitted person-to-person.

How do allergy symptoms differ from COVID-19 symptoms?

Allergies and COVID-19 share some overlapping signs: cough, congestion, runny nose, sometimes shortness of breath. However, there are several key differences that set each condition apart:

  • Fever (100.4°F or higher). This is a common sign of viral infections like COVID-19, but it is not seen with allergies.
  • Digestive issues. COVID-19 can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or stomach upset, but seasonal and environmental allergies typically do not.
  • Eye symptoms. Itchy, watery, or scratchy eyes are hallmarks of allergies, but are uncommon with COVID-19.

One easy way to find out if your symptoms are allergies or COVID-19 is to take a COVID-19 test. At-home COVID-19 tests are available at most pharmacies. They cost between $10 to $20.

What are common COVID-19 symptoms?

Symptoms of COVID-19 vary from person to person but may include:

  • fever or chills
  • cough
  • shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • runny or stuffy nose
  • sore throat
  • fatigue
  • headache
  • muscle or body aches
  • nausea or vomiting
  • diarrhea
  • new loss of taste or smell

These symptoms typically develop between 2 and 14 days from exposure to the COVID-19 virus.

What are the common symptoms of allergies?

Like COVID-19, seasonal allergies vary from person to person. Common seasonal allergy symptoms include:

  • runny nose, usually with clear or pale-colored mucus
  • sneezing
  • coughing
  • red, watery eyes
  • itching around the nose, mouth, or eyes

Left untreated, people with seasonal allergies may develop:

  • nasal congestion
  • headache
  • sore throat
  • postnasal drip
  • decreased sense of smell
  • sinus infections (also called sinusitis)
  • ear infections
  • puffiness or dark circles under the eyes
  • fatigue

These symptoms may appear at different times of the year depending on what triggers your allergies. Tree pollen is a frequent source of early spring allergies, while grass pollen is more problematic during the late spring or early summer. Ragweed pollen emerges in late summer and fall. Outdoor mold can be an issue in fall and winter.

Allergies or COVID-19: how to tell the difference

COVID-19 and allergies have overlapping symptoms. Before you get too bogged down wondering if your symptoms are COVID-19 or allergies, ask yourself these questions:

Have I recently been in contact with someone with COVID-19?

If the answer is yes, and you have symptoms of COVID-19, then consider getting tested.

Do I have a fever, cough, or shortness of breath?

Fever, cough and shortness of breath are three of the most common COVID-19 symptoms. If you have these symptoms, consider getting tested for COVID-19 and/or seeking care from a doctor. This is especially important if you had contact with someone who has a positive COVID-19 test.

A fever is not a sign of seasonal allergies. If you have a fever of 100.4 or higher, even with other allergy symptoms, consider getting tested for COVID-19 and/or seeking care from a doctor.

There may not be a discernible difference between an allergy cough vs. a COVID-19 cough. Both can trigger a dry cough. But COVID-19 does not normally cause a “wet” cough (in which you cough up phlegm), while allergies sometimes can.

Do I normally have seasonal allergies this time of year?

If you answered yes, that should reduce your concern that you have COVID-19, especially if you don’t have a fever. But if you have respiratory symptoms and don’t normally get seasonal allergies, that may be cause for concern. You may want to get tested for COVID-19 and/or consult your doctor.

Consider the big picture. Review your symptoms, recent contacts and your personal health history. If in doubt, contact your doctor to discuss your health concerns.

Do people with allergies have an increased risk of COVID-19?

A 2024 study found that people with allergies are more likely to get COVID-19. This might be because their nasal and airway barriers are in a weakened state.

The study also revealed people with allergies who get COVID-19 do not face a higher risk of severe symptoms and are less likely to die from the virus.

Age and health issues increase COVID-19 risk. This includes conditions like moderate to severe asthma, COPD, or a weakened immune system.

A person wearing glasses and white gloves smiles while holding up a small vial with a white label and a gold cap. The background is blurred, drawing focus to the vial and the person's enthusiastic expression.

Can people with allergies get the COVID-19 vaccine?

Yes, most people with allergies can get the COVID-19 vaccine. The vaccine can help protect you from COVID-19 and severe illness.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says all people 6 months of age and older are eligible to get the COVID-19 vaccine after consulting with a physician, nurse or pharmacist. The consultation should involve clinical shared decision-making and address the benefits and risks of COVID-19 vaccination.

According to a CDC advisory panel that reviews vaccines, the risk-benefit of COVID-19 vaccination is most favorable for people who have at least one high-risk health condition. Allergies are not considered a high-risk health condition, but moderate to severe asthma is. Having a high-risk health condition puts people at increased risk of getting severe COVID-19.

Some U.S. states are issuing COVID-19 vaccine guidance separate from the federal government and CDC. Patients and healthcare providers should check with their state public health agency.

COVID-19 can be a very serious, life-threatening illness. The vaccines have been shown to be highly effective in preventing severe outcomes. They allow your body to develop immunity to the virus without getting sick. If someone who is vaccinated does get diagnosed with COVID-19, they are less likely to experience severe illness. Getting vaccinated protects people around you as well.

What if I am allergic to COVID-19 vaccine ingredients?

People with a diagnosed allergy to any of the COVID-19 vaccine ingredients should speak with their doctor before getting the vaccine. (Severe allergic reactions to vaccines are very rare.) You and your doctor can decide together on whether it’s safe for you to get the vaccine. The ingredients for each of the COVID-19 vaccines are on the FDA website.

If you do get the vaccine, you should be monitored for 30 minutes after the injection. The healthcare facility should be equipped to treat severe allergic reactions. You may want to bring your own epinephrine products for extra protection.

If you do not get the vaccine, talk to your doctor about alternative options for COVID-19 protection.

Can I take my allergy medication the same day as I get my COVID vaccine?

Yes, you can take allergy medication on the same day as the COVID-19 vaccine. Antihistamines and other allergy medicines do not interfere with how the vaccine works.

People with very severe allergies who take high-dose corticosteroids (such as oral corticosteroids) should speak with their doctor before getting the vaccine. Some studies suggest taking high-dose corticosteroids may weaken the immune system and might not provide strong or long-lasting protection. Your doctor may suggest scheduling the vaccine when your steroid dose is lowest.

Can people with allergies on biologics get the COVID vaccine?

Yes, it is safe for people with allergies who take biologic injections to get the COVID-19 vaccine. However, it’s typically recommended there be a 1-7 day waiting period between the biologic and COVID-19 injections.

Allergic conditions treated by biologics include chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps and food allergies.

Can people on allergen immunotherapy get the COVID vaccine?

Yes, it is safe for people undergoing allergen immunotherapy (allergy shots or tablets) to get the COVID-19 vaccine. It is not recommended to take both shots on the same day. It’s best to wait 4-7 days between injections.

Can managing allergies help you spot the difference from COVID-19 symptoms?

Yes, controlling your allergies can make it easier to tell allergy symptoms apart from COVID-19 symptoms. Here are some tips to reduce exposure to allergens:

Reduce symptoms from outdoor allergens

  • Avoid pollens. Plants release pollen at different times. Spring is peak season for grass and tree pollen, especially in the morning, while fall is mostly ragweed pollen. Pollen counts tend to rise on warm, windy days and after storms. To stay safe, avoid the outdoors when pollen is high, mainly from morning to early afternoon.
  • Monitor pollen and mold counts. Airborne pollens can travel for several miles.
  • Avoid fallen leaves. Kids love jumping into leaf piles but kicking them up releases mold spores into the air. This can be harmful. If fall allergens make you wheezy or cause watery eyes, consider hiring someone to clean your leaves. This includes the lawn, gutter, or garden. Alternatively, ask a friend to help. You could offer an hour of free babysitting or another favor in return.
  • Start taking allergy medicine about two weeks before you usually develop symptoms. This will help reduce your symptoms when your allergy season begins. Remember, prevention is key in allergy management.
  • Pre-medicate with an antihistamine and/or a steroid nasal spray two hours before going outside and getting exposed to pollen or mold.
  • Prevent eye allergy symptoms (red, watery, itchy eyes) with antihistamine or lubricating eye drops. Wearing eyeglasses or sunglasses outside can help shield your eyes from pollen particles.
  • Take off shoes and change clothes when coming inside. This keeps pollen particles from tracking inside your house.
  • Wear a mask when raking leaves and doing outdoor activities.
  • Keep windows and doors shut at your home. Close car windows while driving.
  • Take a shower, wash your hair and change your clothes after time outside.
  • Dry laundry or wet clothes indoors rather than on a clothesline outdoors.

Reduce symptoms from indoor allergens

  • Change your heating and air conditioning filters on schedule. Most systems suggest changing filters regularly. So, stick to that schedule. Also, get a pro to service your units often. They blow air throughout the home. So, it’s vital they stay clean and work well.
  • Give high-humidity areas of your home a seasonal cleaning. Focus on the bathroom, laundry room, and kitchen. Start by soaking shower heads in vinegar to remove mold. Then, fix any leaks in faucets and pipes. For painting or wallpapering, ensure walls are clean and free of mold. Finally, choose products that resist mold.
  • Make your home a smoke-free environment. As the weather grows colder, smokers may be tempted to smoke indoors. Don’t let them.
  • Give your fireplace a facelift. If you or a family member has asthma, avoid strong-smelling wood fires and scented candles. These can trigger symptoms. Instead, opt for electric candles for a seasonal glow. Also, clean your fireplace regularly. If you’ve burned a lot of wood, hire a pro to clean it, including the flue and chimney. Gas fireplaces also need cleaning. For glass doors, use a vinegar solution. Then, vacuum up any debris.
  • Show sheet savvy. For seasonal linens, use zippered plastic bags to keep them fresh. Swap heavy, non-washable blankets for layers that are breathable and washable. Cover pillows and mattresses with dust mite-proof covers.
  • Run an exhaust fan or crack a window for ventilation during and after showers. If you don’t already have one, buy an inexpensive, mildew-free shower curtain.
  • De-clutter your home. Vacuum upholstered furniture, carpets, and crowded closets weekly to avoid dust and mites. Also, clear away piles of newspapers, magazines, and other papers. If needed, hire a professional cleaner.
  • Keep pets out of bedrooms. For many, pet dander can trigger allergies or allergic asthma. So, keeping them out of areas where people sleep can reduce symptoms.

Can taking allergy medicine help you tell allergies apart from COVID-19?

If your allergy medication plan is working, then yes, it may help you distinguish allergies from COVID-19 symptoms. People who take allergy medicine as prescribed and develop a fever, cough, shortness of breath and/or body aches might have COVID-19. Take a COVID-19 test to find out for sure.

Common questions and answers (Q&A) about COVID-19 and allergies

Here are some common questions we are asked about COVID-19, allergies and related conditions. If you have any other questions you would like to see answered here, please email our editor.

COVID-19 does not cause allergies, but it can affect your immune system and cause allergy-like symptoms.

Some people recovering from COVID-19 may notice new or lingering symptoms such as nasal congestion, coughing, or a loss of taste or smell. These may seem like allergy symptoms, but they’re usually part of the body’s healing process from COVID-19. It could also be a sign of ongoing inflammation possibly related to Long COVID, not new allergies.

If your symptoms return, especially at certain times of the year or around pets, talk with your doctor. Find out if you have allergies or if your symptoms are from something else. Your doctor can help you get the right treatment so you can breathe easier.

COVID-19 and sinus infections (sinusitis) can cause some of the same symptoms: headache, stuffy nose, cough, and tiredness. It can be hard sometimes to tell these conditions apart.

One key difference is fever. COVID-19 often causes a fever, while sinus infections usually do not. COVID-19 can also cause body aches and a sore throat, which are less common in sinus infections. With a sinus infection, you are more likely to have facial pressure or pain, or develop thick yellow or green mucus.

If you’re not sure which condition you have, call your doctor or take a COVID-19 test. Treatments will differ for each condition.

Yes, a stuffy or runny nose can be symptoms of COVID-19, especially with some of the newer variants. However, it’s also a very common symptom of allergies, colds, and sinus infections, so it doesn’t always mean you have COVID-19. If your stuffy nose comes with fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, or loss of taste or smell, it may be COVID-19. Find out for sure by taking a COVID-19 test.

Allergic asthma occurs when exposure to allergens like pollen, mold or pet dander triggers asthma symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath.

For most people with well-controlled allergic asthma, having asthma does not significantly increase the risk of severe COVID-19. However, moderate to severe asthma or uncontrolled asthma can also make COVID-19 more severe, with serious complications.

Taking your asthma medications as prescribed and avoiding triggers helps keep your lungs healthy. Careful management can also lower the risk of complications if you get COVID-19.

Flu (influenza virus) and COVID-19 symptoms are usually very different from allergies. Both conditions feel a lot alike. The flu is a viral illness like COVID-19.

How to tell flu and COVID-19 apart? Flu symptoms tend to come on suddenly. One day you may feel fine, and the next you feel very sick. Here is a list of common flu symptoms (you may not have all these symptoms):

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Headache
  • Muscle aches or body aches
  • Cough
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue (tiredness)
  • Nausea and vomiting (more common in children)

Flu season is most common in winter months. Cases are at their peak in December through February in most areas of the United States. Most people recover from the flu in about a week. The flu vaccine can

COVID-19 symptoms can occur at any time of the year. They may come on more gradually than the flu and last longer. People with COVID-19 may also be contagious longer than people with flu.

COVID-19 symptoms that overlap with the flu tend to be more severe. People with COVID-19 are more likely to have shortness of breath, stomach issues like nausea or diarrhea, or a new loss of taste or smell (in some people). These symptoms are less common with the flu.

The only way to know for sure if you have the flu or COVID-19? Get tested. See a healthcare professional for a flu diagnosis or take an at-home COVID-19 test.

Common cold symptoms are sometimes similar to allergy symptoms. Likewise, the common cold and COVID-19 can have similar symptoms, especially in the early stages. Both can cause a runny or stuffy nose, sore or scratchy throat, cough and general tiredness. Because the symptoms overlap, it’s not always easy to tell them apart.

What are the key differences?

Cold symptoms usually stay mild. Most people with a cold have sneezing, a sore throat and a stuffy nose. Fevers are less common, and symptoms tend to improve within a few days. Over-the-counter medicines usually help.

COVID-19 can range from mild to serious. Symptoms may include fever, chills, body aches and trouble breathing. These are less common with a cold. Some people also notice a new loss of taste or smell, which is also less common with a cold. COVID-19 may require antiviral drugs for treatment.

When in doubt, get tested. A COVID-19 test is the quickest way to know for sure. Testing helps you get the right care and avoid spreading the virus to others.

Some early symptoms of COVID-19, such as a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, or mild cough, can feel a lot like seasonal allergies. This can make it hard to tell the difference at first. However, there are a few signs that set COVID-19 apart:

  • Fever is common with COVID-19 but not with allergies.
  • Body aches, fatigue, and loss of taste or smell are more likely with COVID-19.
  • Allergy symptoms tend to occur at the same time each year and often include itchy, watery eyes, which are rare with COVID-19.

If you’re unsure if you have COVID-19 or allergies, get tested. Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or you have trouble breathing.

COVID-19 strains are constantly mutating and evolving. Some symptoms of new COVID-19 strains may involve allergy-like symptoms, like a sinus congestion or a runny nose, sneezing, or mild cough. COVID-19 is more likely to cause fever, body aches, fatigue, or loss of taste and smell. Allergies do not usually cause these symptoms.

Reviewed by:
Purvi Parikh, MD, FACAAI is an adult and pediatric allergist and immunologist at Allergy and Asthma Associates of Murray Hill in New York City. She is on faculty as Clinical Assistant Professor in both departments of Medicine and Pediatrics at New York University School of Medicine.

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