Brazil health experts outline how to tell cold, flu, COVID-19 apart and list common throat‑pain causes

Brazilian specialists explain how to differentiate the common cold, influenza and COVID‑19. Fever is a key marker in flu, while COVID‑19 often adds loss of taste or smell and can involve multiple body systems. The Instituto Butantan notes that COVID‑19 patients with moderate to severe disease may receive the antiviral nirmatrelvir/ritonavir free of charge through the public health system.

They also identify seven frequent non‑viral reasons for a sore throat: allergic rhinitis, dry indoor air, gastro‑esophageal reflux, excessive voice use, bacterial infections such as strep throat, smoking (including second‑hand exposure) and inadequate hydration. Medical evaluation is advised if the pain persists beyond a week, is accompanied by high fever, breathing difficulty, swallowing problems, or noticeably enlarged tonsils.