Cold, Flu, COVID-19, and RSV can cause similar respiratory symptoms but require different treatment approaches. At our urgent care, we offer same-day evaluation, testing, and treatment options for viral respiratory illnesses in adults and children. No appointment needed.
Common Symptoms
Cold, Flu, COVID-19, and RSV may cause:
- Cough
- Fever or chills
- Sore throat
- Nasal congestion or runny nose
- Fatigue or body aches
- Headache
- Loss of taste or smell (more common with COVID-19)
Symptoms can range from mild to severe.
Differences Between Cold, Flu, COVID-19 & RSV
While many symptoms overlap, there are important distinctions:
Common Cold
- Usually mild
- Congestion, runny nose, sore throat
- Rarely fever
Influenza (Flu)
- Rapid onset
- High fever, body aches, fatigue
- Can lead to pneumonia or complications
RSV
- Common in infants, toddlers, and older adults
- Causes cough, wheezing, rapid breathing, decreased feeding
- Can lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia in young children
COVID-19
- Variable onset
- Fever, loss of taste/smell, cough, fatigue
- Can cause shortness of breath or respiratory distress
On-Site Testing
Our urgent care offers:
- Rapid COVID-19 testing
- PCR COVID-19 testing
- Rapid Flu (Influenza A/B) testing
- Rapid Strep testing (if throat symptoms present)
- RSV testing (when indicated)
Results guide treatment decisions and help reduce transmission.
Treatment Options
Treatment recommendations depend on the confirmed diagnosis:
Cold
- Symptom relief, hydration, OTC medications
Flu
- Antiviral medications in early course
- Rest, hydration, fever control
RSV
- Hydration & monitoring
- Breathing treatments or oxygen if needed (mostly in higher-risk infants)
COVID-19
- Symptom management for mild cases
- Antivirals for eligible patients
- Guidance on isolation and follow-up
When to Seek Urgent Care
You should seek evaluation if you have:
- Persistent fever
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain or shortness of breath
- Severe sore throat
- Known exposure to Flu or COVID
- Worsening respiratory symptoms
Walk-In Respiratory Care
We provide:
- Same-day evaluation
- On-site testing
- Symptom relief guidance
- Antivirals when indicated
- Pediatric & adult care
- No appointment required
If you’re experiencing cold, flu, COVID-19, and RSV symptoms, we can help you feel better quickly.
To schedule an appointment, please visit our appointment page or call us at (352) 399 2422 for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can urgent care test for Flu and COVID-19?
Yes. We offer rapid flu tests and rapid or PCR COVID-19 testing with same-day evaluation and treatment.
How fast are COVID-19 and Flu test results?
Rapid tests are available within minutes. PCR results may take longer depending on lab processing.
Do Cold, Flu, and COVID have similar symptoms?
Yes. Many symptoms overlap including cough, fever, congestion, sore throat, and fatigue. Testing helps confirm the diagnosis.
Do you offer antiviral treatment for Flu or COVID-19?
Yes. Antivirals may be prescribed for eligible patients when started early in the illness.
When should I seek urgent care for respiratory symptoms?
Seek care if you have fever, shortness of breath, persistent cough, chest discomfort, dehydration, or symptoms lasting more than 3–5 days.
Can children be tested for Flu or COVID-19?
Yes. We test and treat both adults and children.
Do I need an appointment?
No. At American Urgent Care and Walk-In Clinics, you can walk in during clinic hours for testing and evaluation.
