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Is it Flu or COVID-19?

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Switch to:

Is It Flu or COVID-19?

Young woman sick at home.

With our attention already focused on the COVID-19 pandemic, now we also have to think about flu season. Getting your annual flu shot is more important than ever this year. But, if you find yourself experiencing any flu-like symptoms, you may wonder how to differentiate signs of seasonal flu from COVID-19. This side-by-side comparison shows how similar they are. But, it also highlights that shortness of breath or new loss of taste or smell are key COVID-19 symptoms to watch out for. Letting symptoms go for too long could result in serious complications, or even lead to death. If you’re concerned that you may have symptoms of either virus, make an appointment today.

 

It’s important to note that the flu can cause mild to severe illness and usually comes on suddenly. COVID-19 can also range from mild to severe illness, but symptoms typically appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus.

 

Symptoms The Flu COVID-19
Fever or feeling feverish/chills YES* YES
Sore throat YES* YES
Runny or stuffy nose YES* YES
Muscle or body aches YES YES
Headache YES YES
Fatigue YES YES
Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea YES** YES
Cough YES YES
Shortness of breath/difficulty breathing NO YES
New loss of taste or smell NO YES

*Sometimes
**More common in children than adults

Other possible symptoms of COVID-19 exist. Review the most current CDC information at https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/flu-vs-covid19.htm