How To Know The Difference Between Flu And Covid-19

The flu and Covid-19 are both viruses that infect the respiratory tract, and they can be easily spread between humans through contamination from water droplets from the airway passages. They have similar symptoms: namely, respiratory depression, pneumonia, fever, and more. However, they are actually different viruses. Covid-19 is from the coronavirus family while the flu is caused by the influenza virus.

How can you tell the difference between the flu and Covid-19?

What are the symptoms of Covid-19 and the flu?

The symptoms of both the flu and Covid-19 can look and sound the same. As such, it’s almost impossible to distinguish between the two by observation alone.

These symptoms include:

• Fever
• Chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle pain
• Headache
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Because symptoms of the two viruses are so similar, it is very important to get tested for Covid-19 when symptomatic to ensure that the appropriate measures are taken to prevent its transmission. Both viruses can be dangerous, and the ease with which they spread, especially notable with the Omicron Covid variant, is cause for concern.

Can a flu shot protect you from Covid-19?

Unfortunately, a flu shot will not protect against Covid-19. This does not make it any less important this year: common strains of influenza, while not as lethal or easily transmissible as Covid-19, are potentially lethal diseases that can be easily avoided with a vaccine.

Now that the Covid-19 vaccine is available, it’s important to get vaccinated as soon as possible – or your booster shot when eligible – for maximum protection against the virus.

Furthermore, eliminating a potential influenza hospitalization is important amidst the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Because these are different viruses, it is possible to contract concurrent cases of both Covid-19 and influenza. This again underscores the importance of influenza vaccination, even if one is already dealing with Covid-19. Note that social distancing guidelines should continue to be observed, particularly with an active case of Covid-19.

Related:

• Flu Shot FAQ
• What Is The Cost Of A Flu Shot?
• What Ingredients Are In A Flu Shot?
• Why Do You Feel Fatigued After Getting A Flu Shot?
• Is The Flu Shot Safe For Seniors?
• Are Redness And Swelling Normal Flu Shot Symptoms?
• Is It Possible To Get The Flu From A Flu Shot?
• Should You Get A Flu Shot While Pregnant Or Breastfeeding?
• Can You Get A Flu Shot While Sick?
• When Should Children Begin Getting Flu Shots?
• How Effective Is A Flu Shot?
• What Flu Shot Side Effects Can You Expect?
• When Is The Best Time To Get A Flu Shot?