
Cincinnati.com: Sore throat. Sneezing. Coughing. Is it allergies or COVID-19? We asked the experts
UC expert says there may be confusion and overlap from symptoms
The latest COVID-19 subvariants have pushed hospitalizations and cases in Greater Cincinnati high enough that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention last week recommended indoor masking in eight local counties. Many people are experiencing symptoms that could be from COVID or allergies. Cincinnati.com asked some local experts to weigh in, including Carl Fichtenbaum, MD, of the Division of Infectious Diseases at the UC College of Medicine.
Carl Fichtenbaum, MD, of the Division of Infectious Diseases at the UC College of Medicine/Photo/Joe Fuqua II/UC Marketing + Brand
“Don’t assume it is ‘just allergies,'" Fichtenbaum said.
The most common symptoms of the latest subvariants coursing through the region are scratchy throat, runny nose, nasal congestion, achiness, sore throat and cough, he said. “It is true there may be overlap and confusion with allergies."
His advice: “If you have sudden onset of new symptoms, test for COVID."
All of the experts cited by Cincinnati. com pointed to vaccines as the best protection from getting COVID-19.
"Vaccines are one component that is keeping people out of the hospital," said Fichtenbaum. "Having some immunity is better than no immunity. Very important to be vaccinated and boosted."
Next Lives Here
The University of Cincinnati is classified as a Research 1 institution by the Carnegie Commission and is ranked in the National Science Foundation's Top-35 public research universities. UC's graduate students and faculty investigate problems and innovate solutions with real-world impact. Next Lives Here.
Related Stories
Osher Center, Cancer Center partnership receives $2 million gift...
May 14, 2025
The Cincinnati Business Courier highlighted a $2 million gift from John and Carrie Hayden to establish and endow a community learning kitchen that emphasizes the vital role of nutrition not only in the prevention but also the treatment of chronic disease.
Study explores reentry challenges for white-collar offenders
May 14, 2025
A new study, co-led by criminal justice researcher Michael Benson, is the topic of discussion on a WVXU segment. The study found that there are unique challenges for white collar criminals who reenter into society after incarceration. Benson is a professor emeritus and senior research associate in the UC School of Criminal Justice.
Leaders, scholars, changemakers: CoM students earn prestigious...
May 13, 2025
The University of Cincinnati's College of Medicine is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of three remarkable students, who have been recognized with two of the university’s highest honors.