Flu vs COVID
Although both COVID-19 and the flu (Influenza) are both contagious respiratory illnesses, they are caused by different viruses. COVID is caused by infection of the coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), while the flu is caused by infection with the influenza virus. Both of these illnesses spread, but it is concluded that COVID spreads easier and more rapidly. COVID symptoms may take longer to appear and individuals may be contagious for longer. Due to the fact that flu and COVID symptoms are so similar, individuals need to get tested to decipher which virus they have caught.
Flu & COVID Symptoms
Whether you have the flu or COVID, you can have a varying degree of symptoms. Which symptoms an individual possesses may be different, as well as the severity of symptoms, ranging from asymptomatic (no symptoms) to severe symptoms.
Symptoms for both the flu and COVID may include:
- fever
- chills
- cough
- fatigue
- sore throat
- runny or stuffy nose
- muscle pain or body aches
- headache
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- shortness of breath (COVID)
- change in or loss of taste or smell (COVID)
How to determine if you have the Flu or COVID
Although it is difficult to distinguish whether you may have COVID or the flu without a test, there are a few factors that may help. The symptom of losing one’s taste or smell is strongly correlated to having COVID-19. Often times, COVID symptoms are present longer that flu symptoms, lasting several weeks or even months.
If you are feeling ill, experiencing any of the above symptoms, you should take precautions like wearing a mask and self-isolating until you have been tested and are not contagious. There are tests for both the flu and the coronavirus, available at doctor’s offices and some pharmacies, including Preston’s!
Testing, Treatments, & Vaccines
Preston’s Pharmacy offers testing for both the flu and COVID, available without a doctors referral or symptoms. To get a test today, book an appointment on our website today. (Link for flu testing and COVID testing) Take home COVID tests are also common and widely available.
If you have tested positive for the flu, there are three prescription antiviral treatments. These medications are Tamiflu, Relenza, and Rapivab. Get any of these medications at Preston’s Pharmacy with a prescription from your healthcare provider. If you have tested positive for COVID, the FDA has approved Veklury as an antiviral drug for treatment. Get this medication at Preston’s Pharmacy with a prescription from your healthcare provider. Overall, if you are experience any of the symptoms related to the flu or COVID, make sure to hydrate, rest, and take over-the-counter medication, like Tylenol.
During the winter season, flu shots are common to get. It is a vaccine to prevent against getting the flu. COVID-19 vaccines are also available and common to get in order to prevent getting the coronavirus. Both of these vaccines are widely available, even at Preston’s Pharmacy. Book your appointment online, fill out the information need, and follow the map directions for an in-car, drive up vaccination from our pharmacist! (Link for flu vaccine and COVID vaccine)
