What You Need to Know About the Flu and COVID-19

That tickle in your throat. The climbing fever and achy feeling. As we enter flu season, it’s more important than ever to understand the differences and similarities between the flu and COVID-19 and how to prevent the spread of both.

Similarities Between COVID-19 and the Flu

Spread


COVID-19 and the flu are contagious respiratory illnesses, primarily spread through person-to-person contact by coughing, sneezing, or talking to someone close by. Although less common, the viruses can also be transmitted via infected surfaces.

Symptoms


The flu and COVID-19 can have similar symptoms, such as:

• Body aches
• Cough
• Fever/chills
• Shortness of breath
• Sore throat
• Vomiting and diarrhea

Read a complete list of similar symptoms.

COVID-19 and flu symptoms can be so similar that a test is sometimes the only way to make a diagnosis.

Differences Between COVID-19 and the Flu

A Distinguishing Symptom


COVID-19 has one very unique symptom: the loss of taste or smell that comes on suddenly and sometimes without any other symptoms.

Seasonal Infection


Unlike COVID-19, the seasonal flu occurs annually, typically starting as early as September and running as late as April.

Prevention

Get a COVID-19 Vaccine


Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 is the best way to fight the virus. The vaccines are safe and very effective in preventing serious illness and hospitalization.

Pro Tip: The CDC currently recommends the COVID-19 vaccine for anyone 5 years and older.

Get a Flu Vaccine


Like the COVID-19 vaccine, the flu vaccine is your best defense against the flu. It can also reduce your chances of having the flu and COVID-19 at the same time (co-infection). If co-infection happens, it could cause a more serious health condition.

Pro Tip: The CDC recommends people 6 months or older get an annual vaccine.

Stick With Your New Routine


Masking, hand washing and social distancing all help combat COVID-19 and the seasonal flu. Because the viruses spread similarly, these precautions pack a two-for-one punch. With many of these precautions already built into our daily routine, all you need to do is keep up the good work.

Questions

If you have questions about your symptoms, recovery or COVID-19, call your primary care doctor or your local health department.

Local Health Departments

• Clay County Public Health Center: 816.595.4200
• Jackson County Health Department: 816.404.6416
• Kansas City Health Department: 816.513.6008
• Platte County Health Department: 816.587.5998
• Ray County Health Department: 816.776.5413

Find a primary care physician.