Do I Have the Flu or COVID-19? What You Need to Know

As the seasons change and the air turns crisp, many snuggle in cozy blankets, sipping hot tea and trying to ward off the dreaded seasonal sniffles. However, with COVID-19 still lingering, every cough and sneeze seems to prompt the question, ”Do I have COVID or the flu?” 

In the era of COVID-19, the flu season elevates to a whole new level, doubling the worries that flu-like symptoms bring. The signs and symptoms of the flu and COVID-19 often overlap, making it tricky to discern which ailment you or a loved one might face.

This blog delves into the similarities and, more importantly, the key differences between these two viral diseases. Here's everything you need to recognize the more likely cause of your symptoms and understand when to seek professional guidance, helping ensure the safety of our community. 

Virus vs. Virus

Let's start the flu vs. COVID matchup by acknowledging that both are viral illnesses. Though these two conditions have similar signs and symptoms, they have vital differences crucial for an accurate diagnosis.

• Influenza

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a transmittable medical condition caused by influenza viruses. It typically spreads when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, spraying virus-carrying saliva droplets that someone nearby can inhale or touch. The flu often causes mild to severe illness and, in some cases, may lead to hospitalization or even death. 

The flu season begins during the fall and lasts through the winter months, with peak activity occurring between December and February. Vaccination and other preventive measures ( good hand hygiene and staying home when sick) help reduce the spread of the flu.

• COVID-19

COVID-19 is a highly contagious respiratory disease resulting from the novel coronavirus known as SARS-CoV-2. Like influenza, it is transmissible via respiratory droplets, typically during person-to-person contact. Though less common, touching a surface contaminated with the virus and then touching one's mouth, nose, or eyes can also result in infection. 

COVID-19 generally leads to a range of symptoms, varying from mild to severe, and in certain instances, may necessitate hospitalization or result in fatalities.

COVID vs. Flu Symptoms

At first glance, the flu and COVID-19 appear remarkably similar. Both typically lead to symptoms such as

1. Fever
2. Cough
3. Fatigue
4. Body aches
5. Headache
6. Sore throat
7. Congestion or runny nose
8. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
9. Loss of taste or smell

These shared symptoms make it challenging to determine which virus is the culprit. Whether it’s COVID or flu, you’ll get conclusive results if you undergo testing at a local clinic. To manage your expectations, it helps to learn what sets COVID and flu apart.

Difference Between COVID and Flu Symptoms

While the flu and COVID-19 lead to similar respiratory symptoms, COVID-19 tends to have a broader range of potential manifestations. Gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, nausea, and skin rashes are more commonly associated with COVID-19, though they can also occur in some flu cases. 

• Symptom Severity

Loss of taste or smell is more likely a symptom of COVID-19 than the flu. Severity is another differentiating factor – COVID-19 causes severe illness more frequently than the flu, with a higher risk of hospitalization and long-term complications.

• Transmission

A crucial distinction lies during the transmission of these diseases. While both the flu and COVID-19 spread through respiratory droplets, COVID-19 has proven to be more contagious and has an extended incubation period, which makes its spread more challenging to control.

Do I Have COVID or the Flu?

If you want to confirm whether you have the flu or COVID-19, the most dependable way to know is to get tested. COVID-19 tests, like polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and rapid antigen tests, are widely available. While flu tests are also widespread, they might be less available outside of flu season.

If you need help deciding which test to take, we recommend getting a COVID-19 test, especially when COVID-19 is prevalent in your community. A positive COVID-19 test result confirms the presence of the virus, while a negative one suggests that you may have the flu, another respiratory illness, or no viral illness at all.

Prevention is Key

Whether you're dealing with the flu or COVID-19, taking preventive measures is crucial. As soon as you recognize signs of COVID-19 or the flu, get tested ASAP! Here are some tips to protect yourself and others:

1. Get vaccinated: Your annual flu vaccination efficiently helps reduce the severity of flu symptoms and complications.
2. Practice good hand hygiene: Wash your hands religiously with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
3. Wear a mask: In crowded or indoor settings, wearing a mask reduces the risk of COVID-19 transmission.
4. Maintain physical distancing: Keep at least six feet away from people outside your household, especially indoors.
5. Avoid close contact with sick people: If you or someone you know is exhibiting symptoms and tested positive, limit close contact with the person to prevent the spread of illness.

In the face of two adversaries—the flu and COVID-19—our greatest weapons are vigilance and education. While both illnesses share similar tactics, remember that COVID-19 has a broader range of potential symptoms, is often more severe, and has a more extended incubation period. Still, getting tested is the fastest, most reliable way to know which virus you're dealing with. Regardless of the diagnosis, prevention remains critical in the ongoing battle against the flu and COVID-19. 

Influenza FAQs

• How is influenza different from COVID-19?

Influenza and COVID-19 do not come from the same type of virus. Various influenza viruses cause the flu, while only the SARS-CoV-2 virus can cause COVID-19. They have similar symptoms, but the severity and duration of illness may vary.

• How can I prevent influenza?

You need to get an annual flu vaccine, practice good hand hygiene, and avoid close contact with sick people.

• Is there a vaccine for influenza?

Yes, there is a flu vaccine, which is recommended annually for most people, especially those at higher risk of complications.

• Is the flu a virus?

Yes, the flu is a virus. More accurately, it is an illness caused by highly contagious influenza viruses.

COVID-19 FAQs

• How is COVID-19 different from influenza?

A different virus causes COVID-19, which has a more extended incubation period and can lead to more severe symptoms and complications. It also has a different transmission pattern.

• How can I prevent COVID-19?

Preventive measures for COVID-19 include getting vaccinated, wearing masks in crowded or indoor settings, practicing physical distancing, washing hands frequently, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.

• Is there a vaccine for COVID-19?

Yes, several COVID-19 vaccines have been developed and authorized for use worldwide. These vaccines have proven effective in preventing the spread of the virus. 

• Is COVID-19 viral or bacterial?

COVID-19 is a viral infection caused by the novel coronavirus known as SARS-CoV-2. Bacteria cannot cause COVID-19.

• Is COVID the flu?

COVID-19 is not a type of flu. It is a respiratory disorder caused by the novel coronavirus known as SARS-CoV-2.

Stay Protected Against COVID-19 and Influenza By Keeping Informed!

If you're searching online for "signs of COVID-19" or "common cold vs COVID," you’re guaranteed to get answers from AllMed Medical Center. 

Learning the critical differences between influenza and COVID-19 helps you stay several steps ahead of the viruses and, ultimately, ensures the safety of your family and the community. If you are experiencing symptoms and are unsure about them, skip the guesswork and let our medical team sort you out! Our doctors and staff specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing influenza and COVID-19 using innovative and conventional methods. 

We commit ourselves to providing a safe and comfortable environment for all our patients, ensuring a positive and stress-free experience. 

Reach us at 1-833-255-6332 or request an appointment here.