Is It The Flu or COVID?

With flu season in full swing, it is now more than ever important to know the difference between the flu and COVID-19.

Although both viruses are different, here are the symptoms, as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), that are similar:

The biggest difference between the two viruses is that influenza (more commonly known as the flu) can cause mild to severe illness within a couple days of contracting the virus. Conversely, the novel coronavirus or COVID-19 has been known to be mild to very serious for some within five days of suspected contraction.

However, some people have had COVID-19 and not shown any symptoms, also known as being asymptomatic. In more extreme cases, some people have exhibited a loss of smell or taste when they contracted COVID-19.

If you or a family member have exhibited any or all these symptoms, then it is a good idea to get tested for both the flu and COVID-19 as soon as possible. For the flu, it is possible that someone will be contagious within 1 day before showing symptoms and then a week following the symptoms. Patients who test positive for COVID-19 can be contagious up to 2 days before showing symptoms but will remain contagious up to 10 days from showing symptoms. 

To prevent the spread of the flu or COVID, it is recommended that everyone wash their hands frequently, avoid touching the mouth, nose and eyes and sneeze and cough into your sleeve or elbow. To prevent the spread of COVID, everyone should wear facemasks in public and where social distancing is not possible, avoid large crowds and self-isolate for at least two weeks if you believe you have been exposed to the virus. 

Additionally, flu shots are still available, offering protection against many of the influenza strains expected to be in circulation this winter. They are available from your doctor, pharmacy and local health departments, often for little or no cost. Vaccines and booster shots for COVID are also now available, although you may need to make an appointment to secure a timeslot.

The sooner you get tested, the better off you will be in keeping your family and friends safe from the deadly duo of viruses.

Source(s): CDC

Story Image: Image provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD).