Strep Throat vs. COVID-19: How to Tell the Difference

A sore throat can be unsettling—especially when it’s severe, persistent, or paired with other symptoms. Since both strep throat and COVID-19 can cause throat pain, it’s not always easy to tell which one you’re dealing with. Knowing the differences can help you act quickly, protect others, and get the right care when it matters most.

This guide explains how strep throat and COVID-19 differ, what symptoms to watch for, and when you should be evaluated in the emergency room.

What Is Strep Throat?

Strep throat is a bacterial infection caused by group A Streptococcus. It spreads through close contact, coughing, sneezing, or sharing drinks and utensils. Because it’s bacterial, antibiotics are required to fully treat it.

If left untreated, strep throat can lead to serious complications such as:

• Rheumatic fever
• Kidney inflammation
• Abscesses near the tonsils

Prompt evaluation and treatment are important, especially when symptoms are severe.

What Is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a viral infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It can affect the respiratory system and may range from mild symptoms to severe illness. Unlike strep throat, COVID-19 does not respond to antibiotics, but early medical evaluation is still important—especially for patients with risk factors or worsening symptoms.

Strep Throat vs. COVID-19: Symptom Comparison

While some symptoms overlap, others can help distinguish between the two.

Common Strep Throat Symptoms

• Sudden, severe sore throat
• Pain when swallowing
• Red, swollen tonsils with white patches
• Fever over 101°F
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Headache, nausea, or chills

Common COVID-19 Symptoms

• Sore throat (often milder at first)
• Cough
• Fever or chills
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue and body aches
• Loss of taste or smell
• Headache or congestion

Key difference:

Strep throat usually comes on suddenly and intensely, while COVID-19 symptoms may start gradually and affect multiple body systems.

Why Testing and Evaluation Matter

Because symptoms can overlap, testing is the only way to confirm whether you have strep throat or COVID-19. Delaying care can lead to complications, especially if breathing becomes difficult or swallowing is impaired.

At the emergency room, providers can quickly:

• Perform rapid strep testing
• Evaluate for COVID-19
• Check oxygen levels
• Assess hydration and airway safety

When to Seek Emergency Care

You should seek immediate evaluation at an ER if you experience:

• Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
• Difficulty swallowing saliva or fluids
• Severe throat swelling or neck pain
• Persistent high fever
• Chest pain or tightness
• Severe weakness, dizziness, or confusion
• Symptoms that worsen rapidly

These signs may indicate complications that require urgent medical attention.

Why the ER Is the Right Choice for Severe Symptoms

While mild symptoms may be managed at home, the emergency room is best equipped for more serious cases. An ER provides:

• Immediate physician evaluation
• Rapid testing and diagnostics
• IV fluids for dehydration
• Oxygen support if needed
• Fast treatment decisions without long waits

In conditions like severe strep infection or COVID-related breathing issues, time matters.

FAQ: Strep Throat vs. COVID-19

Final Thoughts

Strep throat and COVID-19 can look similar at first, but they require very different care. Knowing the warning signs helps you protect your health and avoid complications.

If you’re experiencing a severe sore throat, trouble swallowing, breathing concerns, or symptoms that are getting worse, don’t wait.

Visit Memorial Village Emergency Room in Houston for fast testing, expert evaluation, and compassionate care—available 24/7.

Sources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Strep Throat & COVID-19
• Mayo Clinic: Strep Throat
• National Institutes of Health (NIH): COVID-19 Symptoms