Flu, COVID or Just a Viral Fever? Why Symptoms Alone Can't Always Tell You

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Feeling feverish with cough, body ache and fatigue? You may be asking yourself: Is it flu, COVID-19 or just another viral infection? The thing is, these illnesses can look a lot alike early on.

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"In Bengaluru, where respiratory infections are on the rise now, sometimes relying on symptoms alone can be misleading," said Dr Vishwas K, Consultant Physician (Internal Medicine) at HOSMAT Hospital.

The numbers are why this is important. As of 22 August 2026, Greater Bengaluru reported 2,070 laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza and Bengaluru Urban reported 1,011 additional cases. Karnataka's total was 4,212 cases in 32 districts, already close to the 4,583 cases recorded across the whole of 2025 and higher than the 3,903 cases in 2024. State health officials have said the current uptick is part of the state's typical seasonal pattern, with flu levels typically rising from July through September.

In the meantime, COVID-19 is still with us. Between 1 January and 17 July 2026, there were 121 cases of COVID-19 in Bengaluru, with most of the infections described as mild by doctors. Among the current respiratory infections, doctors in the city have also said they are seeing more cases of influenza A, especially H1N1 and H3N2, than COVID-19.

Why Symptoms Can Be Misleading

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"Influenza, COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses can cause fever, sore throat, cough, runny nose, fatigue, headache and body ache. Some patients will have a few of these symptoms, but others will have significant fever and weakness," said Dr Vishwas.

Even symptoms that have traditionally been associated with COVID-19, such as loss of smell or taste, are not sufficient to make the diagnosis. Other respiratory viruses can sometimes cause similar symptoms.

"That is why the question should not always be, 'What infection is this symptom telling me about?' Instead, we should ask, 'How severe are the symptoms, how long have they been present, and does this person have risk factors for complications?,' advised Dr Vishwas.

When To Think About Testing?

Testing is particularly useful when the outcome is likely to alter management. Depending on age, underlying health conditions, severity of illness, exposure history and duration of symptoms, a doctor may recommend testing for influenza or COVID.

"This is especially important for older adults, young children, pregnant women and people with conditions such as diabetes, heart or lung disease or weakened immunity. Early medical assessment in high-risk patients with influenza can be particularly important, as antiviral treatment may be recommended when clinically indicated," explained Dr Vishwas.

Importantly, not all fevers need a battery of tests. Based on the clinical picture, the physician can determine if testing is indicated.

Don't Treat Yourself On A Guess

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The mistake many make is assuming all fevers are bacterial and prescribing antibiotics. Antibiotics don't work for influenza, COVID-19 or other viral infections. The unnecessary use of antibiotics may lead to resistance to antimicrobials.

"Likewise, you should not take antiviral drugs casually or without the advice of a doctor. Treatment decisions depend on suspected infection, time, severity and individual risk factors," warned Dr Vishwas.

The Bigger Message Is Watch The Pattern

Dr Vishwas said, "So the rational approach to the current Bengaluru flu season is neither panic nor complacency. If you develop fever and respiratory symptoms, rest, stay hydrated, avoid close contact with others and consider wearing a mask around people."

See a doctor if the fever persists or symptoms worsen, especially if you develop breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, extreme weakness or inability to keep hydrated.

"Flu, COVID and other viral fevers can look similar at first glance. Symptoms can raise suspicion, but it is the proper clinical assessment and testing when indicated that helps tell the difference," concluded Dr Vishwas.

Please note that the recent surge in influenza is seasonal, and no new outbreak is being witnessed, according to the latest surveillance data from Karnataka.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.