COVID vs the Flu

Yep, it’s that time again, Flu season. In the US flu season occurs in the fall and winter months and peaks in the month of December. With another strain of COVID floating around, this can be a scary time of year. Although the symptoms of Flu seem very similar to COVID, these two viruses are vastly different. Learning more about these viruses will help protect us from this terrifying flu season. Limiting our exposure and making healthier choices is the perfect combination to combating these two viruses. 

Let’s start with the symptoms. COVID and the Flu are both viruses that affect the respiratory system. Symptoms of both viruses can vary in severity ranging from no symptoms to severe. However, COVID may progress into more serious symptoms in some people. Common symptoms of both viruses include fever, cough, chills, SOB, fatigue, runny nose, sore throat, body aches, headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and change in taste and smell. However, change in taste and smell is more specific in the COVID virus. Serious complications include respiratory failure, pneumonia, heart attack, organ failure or death. 

Both viruses are highly contagious and are spread from person to person via close contact. Remember to keep a safe distance, at least 6 feet away from others to help prevent the spread of these respiratory viruses. Coughing, sneezing, laughing, and talking can cause small particles to expell in the air that another person can indirectly inhale; or by touching others can put them at risk for contracting the virus or viruses. It is also important to always practice good hand hygiene to reduce your risk. 

In both viruses it is possible to spread the virus one or more days before experiencing any symptoms. With the Flu, most individuals experience symptoms 1-4 days after infection whereas, individuals infected with COVID typically experience symptoms 5 days after infection. However, the start of symptoms can range anywhere between 2-14 days after infected with COVID.

In summary, stay safe this holiday season by washing your hands and keeping a 6-foot distance from others. In addition to good handwashing techniques and safe distancing, getting your annual Flu vaccine and the COVID vaccines can lessen your risk of getting these viruses and or lessen the severity of symptoms. Wearing your face masks in public places will also decrease your risk. 

References:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (November 23, 2021). What is the difference between Influenza (Flu) and COVID-19? Retrieved on December 9, 2021 from https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/flu-vs-covid19.htm

Mayo Clinic. (September 8, 2021). COVID 19 vs Flu: Similarities and Differences. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/coronavirus-vs-flu/art-20490339 on December 9, 2021.

Inecia Stewart, MSN, CCRN, RN-BC