Is it the Flu or COVID? How to know the difference?
Experts believe that this year the flu season will be particularly tough. A loosening of COVID-19 restrictions combined with the loss of mask wearing and social distancing means that the flu virus will be back in circulation once again.
At the same time, COVID-19 is still with us. Until we reach a point where the vast majority of the population has been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, the virus will continue to be present. So, this season, we will all have to practice a little more vigilance against both COVID-19 and the flu.
Individuals who have been fully vaccinated against COVID-19
For those who have received both doses of the COVID-19 vaccination, keep in mind that it is still possible to get infected with COVID-19. Remember, the purpose of the COVID-19 vaccination is NOT to prevent catching the virus. The purpose is to keep you out of the hospital and reduce the chances of serious illness or death with COVID-19 if you are infected.
Symptoms of the flu and COVID-19
Symptoms of the flu and COVID-19 may include
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Tiredness
- Body aches
Because these symptoms are common to both COVID-19 and the flu, it is difficult to determine which one you may have. As a patient, the most important thing to do is pay attention to your symptoms. For example, regardless of what you believe the diagnosis to be, you should always seek medical help if you have urgent or life-threatening symptoms such as those listed below:
When to get emergency medical help
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty breathing or gasping for breath
- Chest pain
Diagnosis of COVID-19 and the flu
If you are unsure whether you have COVID-19 or the flu, contact your local 24- hour emergency room for details about COVID-19 testing criteria and testing locations. As usual, it is best to stay at home, self-isolate and follow good health hygiene until symptoms clear.
Treating COVID-19 or the flu
Use your symptoms as a guide. Most adults who develop the flu or those who develop COVID-19 despite being fully vaccinated against it, will usually have mild-moderate symptoms that can be managed at home with rest, fluids and over-the-counter medications such as aspirin or Tylenol.
Those with more severe symptoms of either a severe flu or COVID-19 (usually individuals unvaccinated against COVID-19) may need to go to their local emergency room if they begin to experience severe symptoms such as those mentioned.
Regardless of what you believe the diagnosis to be, your symptoms will determine the level of care you need. Severe symptoms of either condition should always be dealt with urgently at a medical center.
Steps you can take to protect yourself from the flu and COVID-19
- Get your seasonal flu shot as soon as possible – contact LifeSavers ER to see when you can book a flu shot for yourself and your family.
- Get fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Individuals above the age of 12 are eligible.
- Continue to practice good hand hygiene.
- Where appropriate (i.e. in communities where there is still a high number of covid cases) wear a mask when in crowded areas or confined spaces.
Emergency in Houston?
Life Savers 24 Hour Emergency Room is equipped to handle life threatening conditions quickly. Your emergency or concern is our priority! Life Savers 24 Hour Emergency Room is your Houston ER for immediate definite care. Do not hesitate to call us today or stop by one of our houston emergency room locations: Willowbrook ER, Heights ER, or Summerwood ER.
Life Savers 24 Hour Emergency Room is equipped to handle life threatening conditions quickly. Your emergency or concern is our priority! Life Savers 24 Hour Emergency Room is your Houston ER for immediate definite care. Do not hesitate to call us today or stop by one of our houston emergency room locations: Willowbrook ER, Heights ER, or Summerwood ER.
