A new season is upon us, with new weather changes, and with that comes new changes in our bodies. These changes can cause new unwelcome symptoms that leave you feeling under the weather. Your body may feel fatigued, achy, feverish, and you may have a slight cough. You may be thinking to yourself, could this be the common cold, or our unwelcome friend COVID-19? Although quite similar, here are a few differences between these two respiratory illnesses that you need to know:
COVID-19:
Caused by infection with a coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2)
Spreads easier
Longer time period before symptoms are prominent - typically 2-5 days and can happen 14 days after being infected
Symptoms can be more severe
Loss of taste
Loss of smell
Symptoms may be long term
Influenza(Flu):
Caused by infection with a flu virus (influenza viruses)
Earlier onset of symptoms from the time of infection - typically 1-4 days
Can cause a runny or stuffy nose
However different these two illnesses are, the effects and toll taken on the body can be both similar and uncomfortable. Keeping safe during the fall and winter seasons should be a top priority. We encourage you to take your vitamins, take the time to stay active, increase your water intake, and eat your greens. Give your body the necessary tools it needs to ward off illnesses such as the flu and COVID-19.
Although differences and similarities exist between the common cold/flu and COVID-19, we recommend you get tested as soon as you notice an onset of symptoms. Get in touch with your healthcare provider immediately for medical advice today to learn more about how you can prevent the spread of COVID-19 as we approach the winter months.
Sources:
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/flu-vs-covid19.htm