Cold and flu season is here again, and if you’re a parent in Alberta, you’ve likely noticed sniffles, coughs, and fevers making their rounds through schools and daycares. But when your child starts coughing or spiking a fever, how can you tell if it’s RSV, the flu, or COVID-19?
These illnesses can look similar at first, but understanding their key differences helps you know when to monitor, when to rest, and when it’s time to call your doctor.
At PulseAir Heart & Lung Centre, we work closely with families across Alberta to support respiratory health, from diagnosing chronic lung conditions to helping children recover from viral infections safely.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. If your child is having trouble breathing, persistent fever, or appears very unwell, call your doctor or 911 immediately.
Why It Matters
RSV, flu, and COVID are all viral infections that affect the lungs and airways. For most children, symptoms are mild, but for some, especially infants, toddlers, and kids with asthma or heart conditions, these viruses can cause serious complications.
Understanding which illness your child might have can help you take the right precautions, protect vulnerable family members, and get timely care if needed.
Symptom Comparison: RSV vs. Flu vs. COVID
Each illness affects children a bit differently. Here’s a simple way to spot some common patterns:
|
Illness |
Typical Symptoms |
How It Starts |
Who’s Most at Risk |
|
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) |
Runny nose, congestion, cough, wheezing, laboured breathing, poor feeding |
Gradual onset |
Babies, toddlers, and children with lung or heart conditions |
|
Flu (Influenza) |
High fever, chills, sore throat, cough, body aches, fatigue |
Sudden onset |
Children under 5, especially with chronic conditions |
|
COVID-19 |
Fever, cough, sore throat, loss of taste/smell, fatigue, possible stomach upset |
Varies — sometimes gradual |
All ages; risk higher in unvaccinated or immune-compromised kids |
Tip: If your child’s symptoms appear very quickly (especially with high fever and aches), it’s more likely to be the flu. If they have wheezing or difficulty feeding, it could be RSV. And if symptoms seem mild or unpredictable, but linger or come with loss of smell/taste, it could be COVID-19.
When to Call a Doctor or Seek Medical Help
While most respiratory infections can be managed at home, there are times when it’s important to seek care, especially if your child has an existing respiratory or cardiac condition.
Call your doctor or visit an urgent care clinic if your child:
- Is breathing fast or appears to be working hard to breathe (nostrils flaring, ribs visible)
- Has blue or pale lips or fingertips
- Is too tired to eat, drink, or play
- Has a fever lasting more than 4–5 days or one that doesn’t respond to medication
- Is under 6 months old with a cough, wheezing, or fever
- Has a chronic lung or heart condition and seems to be worsening
When in doubt, always call your child’s healthcare provider. It’s better to check early than wait for symptoms to get worse.
Keeping Your Family Healthy This Season
You can’t prevent every cough or sniffle, but a few proactive habits go a long way toward protecting your family’s health this winter.
1. Stay Up to Date on Vaccines
Make sure your family’s flu shots and COVID boosters are current. They help reduce the risk of serious illness, especially for kids with chronic respiratory or cardiac conditions.
2. Practise Good Hygiene
Teach kids to wash their hands often, cover their coughs, and use tissues instead of sleeves. Encourage them to stay home when they’re sick to prevent spreading germs.
3. Keep the Air Clean
During Alberta’s long indoor months, air quality matters. Use HEPA filters, avoid indoor smoke, and keep humidity levels comfortable to reduce airborne irritants.
4. Support Strong Lungs
If your child has asthma, COPD, or another chronic condition, follow their care plan closely. Keep inhalers, spacers, or prescribed medications handy, and have an updated action plan with your healthcare provider.
5. Prioritize Rest and Nutrition
Sleep, hydration, and balanced meals help strengthen your child’s immune system so their body can fight infections effectively.
How PulseAir Heart & Lung Centre Can Help
If your child’s cough lingers or their breathing seems off, it may be time for a respiratory assessment.
At PulseAir Heart & Lung Centre, our team provides:
- Respiratory consultations for children and adults
- Pulmonary function testing (to measure lung performance)
- Heart and lung evaluations for persistent symptoms
- Asthma and COPD management plans for ongoing care
We’re proud to serve families across Alberta with advanced diagnostics, compassionate care, and a team that understands local challenges, from dry winter air to wildfire smoke.
Let’s work together to help your family breathe easier this season.
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Help Your Child Breathe Easier This Winter
It can be tough to tell RSV, flu, and COVID apart, even for experienced parents. What matters most is watching your child closely, trusting your instincts, and reaching out for medical help when something doesn’t feel right.
This winter, stay informed, stay proactive, and remember that PulseAir is here to support your family’s heart and lung health every step of the way. Got a referral from your doctor?
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