As part of a 21 News 6:40 Special Dr. James Shina, an Internal Medicine Physician of Steward Medical Group, answered live facebook questions from viewers, helping differentiate allergy symptoms from coronavirus.

How do we differentiate between symptoms of allergies and symptoms of coronavirus?

"The two sets of symptoms are very different, but upfront coronavirus can look like a lot of different things. The initial symptoms of coronavirus can range from runny nose and sore throat to diarrhea and loss of taste and smell. You also experience cough, shortness of breath, and fever."

"Allergies will typically be a runny nose, watery or itchy eyes and doesn't really change much. Allergies typically don't give you fevers and shortness of breath unless you get really congested. Upfront, they look similar but, in reality, not similar at all. Fever and shortness of breath are the main symptoms of coronavirus."

How long will loss of taste and smell last from coronavirus?

"Typically, a few days and in my experience is the first thing to come back."

When should you call your doctor?

"Loss of taste, smell, and fever would prompt a call to your doctor. When we get into having shortness of breath, we are really running into some problems. Worsening symptoms would also prompt a call."

Over the counter recommendations?

"Tylenol is always good for pain and muscle aches. Anecdotal evidence about anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen or Aleve that can make you more sick is unsubstantiated at this time. Tylenol is still the safest for most people for pain. Most over the counter remedies will help for both allergies and early stages of coronavirus."

Tips for allergy sufferers?

"Most people will know what their seasonal allergies will feel like, and if something feels out of the ordinary when it comes to that, you need to call your doctor."

How do you navigate the workplace with allergy symptoms?

"Basic hygiene. You are going to need to cough and sneeze at some point. Wash your hands, cough and sneeze into your sleeve, don't touch your face even though that is sometimes very hard to do."

Is type O blood resistant to COVID-19?

"There is no consistent data to support that claim. It is interesting research, but I can not say yes or no at these times."