21 Nov Flu Vs Covid-19, And How To Know The Difference

The coronavirus responsible for the current, ongoing pandemic, COVID 19, and the more familiar seasonal flu are similar diseases. Both viruses are surprisingly familiar: they both have genetic variants which are responsible for the “common cold” — more of a colloquialism than a meaningful classification. How do you know the difference between the flu and Covid-19?

Flu vs 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 airway droplets. They have similar symptoms:

• respiratory depression,
• pneumonia,
• fever, and more.

They are different in the sense that the amino acids which comprise their genetic structure are sequenced differently.

However, at the end of the day, they are treated in a similar fashion. Both are extremely dangerous, and the ease with which they are transmitted is cause for alarm.

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

Covid-19 and most common influenza viruses cause similar symptoms, making it particularly difficult to distinguish between the two with observation. 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 extremely important to get tested for Covid-19 when symptomatic to ensure that the appropriate measures are taken to prevent its spread. Concierge MD can take care of Covid-19 testing needs and more.

Can a flu shot protect you from Covid-19?

Unfortunately, a flu shot will not provide immunity against Covid-19. This does not make it any less crucial this year: common strains of influenza, while not as lethal or easily transmissible as Covid-19, are extremely dangerous diseases which can be easily prevented with a vaccine. Furthermore, avoiding a potential trip to the hospital caused by influenza is important amidst the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.

Because these are different viruses, it is possible to contract simultaneous cases of both Covid-19 and influenza.

This again affirms the importance of influenza vaccination, even if one is experiencing a case of Covid-19. Note that social distancing guidelines should be observed, especially with an active case of Covid-19.

Read Next:

• What Are The Active Ingredients Inside A Flu Shot?
• Can You Get The Flu From A Flu Shot?
• How Effective Is Getting A Flu Shot?
• What Are The Most Common Flu Shot Side Effects?
• Is It Safe To Get A Flu Shot During The Covid-19 Pandemic?
• 5 Benefits Of In-Home Covid Testing You Haven’t Thought About
• What Are The Differences Between The Types of Covid-19 Tests?