Flu or COVID: What You Need to Know

If you’ve found yourself coughing in public lately, it’s likely you’ve received some curious glances—or even a glaring stare. Hopefully, those onlookers were masked, offering a semblance of comfort in the form of a half-smile. But in today’s pandemic climate, it’s understandable for people to react this way. How can you differentiate between a seasonal cold and a more serious virus? Both COVID-19 and the flu are contagious respiratory illnesses, but they stem from different viruses.

I admit, I sometimes find myself watching closely when someone coughs or sneezes in a store, instinctively feeling anxious about the possibility of COVID-19 affecting me or my family. To ease my worries, I decided to get a flu shot for the first time in six years. Why? Because I recognize the effectiveness of the vaccine, despite my reluctance to get it.

We have a better understanding of the flu compared to COVID-19 since it has been around longer. First appearing in 1918, the flu infected over 35 million people in 2019. In contrast to early COVID-19 deaths, the flu pandemic had widespread fatalities across all age groups, including children under 5 and seniors over 65.

Symptoms of Flu and COVID-19

So, what are the symptoms of the flu? They are fairly straightforward: a runny or stuffy nose, cough, fever, body aches, and fatigue. On the other hand, COVID-19 symptoms can be harder to miss if you haven’t experienced it or know someone who has. Symptoms of COVID-19 include muscle aches, fatigue, fever, difficulty breathing, and chills. For a complete list of COVID-19 symptoms, you can check out Johns Hopkins Medicine.

The key takeaway is that flu and COVID-19 symptoms can overlap, and both viruses spread similarly.

Who is Contagious?

According to the CDC, individuals with the flu can spread it to others up to about six feet away. The flu virus primarily spreads through droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of those nearby or be inhaled. Occasionally, flu can be contracted by touching a surface contaminated with the virus. The most contagious period for flu is typically the first 3-4 days after symptoms begin.

In contrast, a person with COVID-19 can remain contagious for a much longer duration. The CDC notes that COVID-19 spreads when an infected individual exhales droplets and tiny particles containing the virus. These can be inhaled by others or land on their eyes, noses, or mouths. Close contact—within six feet—is the primary risk for transmission.

Determining the Illness

Identifying whether you’re suffering from the flu or COVID-19 can be challenging due to the similarities in symptoms. A key distinction is that loss of smell (anosmia) or taste (ageusia) is rare with the flu but relatively common with COVID-19. However, these symptoms may not appear immediately, making testing essential. There are various testing options available, so check them out.

Both flu and COVID-19 can be transmitted within a day—whether through an unmasked cough or a tissue mishap. COVID-19 symptoms may take longer to manifest, allowing for potential unknowingly spreading the virus to others.

Interestingly, it is possible to have both the flu and COVID-19 simultaneously.

Preventative Measures

To protect yourself and others, get vaccinated against both the flu and COVID-19. These vaccines are effective in reducing the risk of illness. Keep in mind that the flu vaccine does not provide protection against COVID-19, and vice versa, making it important to receive both shots (don’t forget about your children too).

Dr. Maya Lee, Chief Medical Officer, emphasizes in a recent statement that it is safe to receive both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time. “Getting vaccinated for both viruses is crucial for safeguarding yourself from these potentially dangerous illnesses.” If you’re curious about COVID-19 booster eligibility, you can find more information on the CDC’s booster page.

And of course, remember to wear a mask.

For more information on pregnancy and home insemination, visit this excellent resource: NHS.

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In summary, knowing the differences between flu and COVID-19 symptoms is essential in today’s health climate. Vaccination against both viruses is strongly advised to protect yourself and others from serious illness.