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The fall months are upon us. With the cooler temperatures, people are beginning to enjoy their annual football tailgates, bonfires, and fall festivals. Although many people enjoy the brisk fall weather, it typically signifies the onset of the influenza season. This flu season is especially challenging because the risk of COVID-19 is still present across the country. Unfortunately, COVID-19 and the influenza virus have many common symptoms. As you work through illnesses this season, it is important to understand the differences between common viruses. In this article, we will talk about the similarities and differences between COVID-19, the flu, and other similar ailments.
What Is the Flu?
The influenza virus is commonly referred to as “the flu.” This illness is caused by a virus that is primarily present in the lungs, nose, and throat. Every year, roughly 8% of the U.S population is affected by the flu. Children are the most likely demographic to be infected with a strand of the flu. There are different strands of the virus that are active each year. Common symptoms of this virus include:
- Runny Nose
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Stomachaches
- Sore Throat
These symptoms can range from mild to severe. Most individuals that are affected by the flu experience symptoms for at least four days.
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is a virus that is especially dangerous for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions. The majority of affected individuals experience mild symptoms. Unfortunately, some people experience severe symptoms or even death. This virus is incredibly contagious, the most common symptoms being:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of Breath
- Loss of Smell and Taste
- Headache
- Sore Throat
As you know, this virus is currently spreading rampantly across the globe. To avoid contracting the illness, many individuals are taking precautionary measures such as wearing masks and maintaining social distance.
What Are the Differences Between the Flu and COVID-19?
If you begin experiencing symptoms, it is important to decipher them, as there are some key differences in the two illnesses. One of the key differences is that influenza can technically spread faster than COVID-19 due to the shorter time between successive cases. The flu is most common in children, but COVID-19 is infrequent and inconsequential for the majority of civilians under the age of 19. In addition, there are vaccines available for the flu but not for COVID-19. If you are experiencing a loss of taste or smell, you are likely suffering from COVID-19.
The only way to know for certain whether you have the flu or COVID-19 is by getting tested. You can get tests at many local community centers and clinics. If you need to get tested at home because you or someone you live with is part of a vulnerable group, a medical service such as Drip Hydration can provide at-home COVID testing in NC and other states in the US. By knowing whether you have the flu or COVID-19, you can do your part to help prevent the spread of the virus. If you want safe and reliable at-home COVID tests like the day 2 5 8 test, then visit TheHealthHub.com.
What Other Illnesses Have Similar Symptoms?
Influenza and COVID-19 are not the only illnesses that share common symptoms. There are other illnesses that cause fevers, shortness of breath, runny noses, and sore throats. Some of these illnesses are mild while others are incredibly severe. Common symptoms are present in most annual colds or sinus infections. Many people experience seasonal allergies that cause them to cough, sneeze, and suffer from headaches. In more severe situations, mesothelioma patients experience coughing and shortness of breath. Mesothelioma can be brought on by exposure to asbestos. If you believe your cough and sore throat are a result of mesothelioma, contact your doctor immediately. After calling your doctor, contact firms like Bergman Legal. This firm is focused on seeking justice for those suffering from mesothelioma.
Endnote
This year, many people are confused about the differences between the common cold, COVID-19, and the flu. If you are experiencing symptoms of these illnesses, take necessary precautions to protect yourself and those around you. It is important to do adequate research to determine which illness you may be suffering from. Getting adequate sleep, exercise, and nutrients increases your ability to fight off infection.
