Coronavirus (COVID-19): Is It The Same As The Flu?

COVID-19 and Influenza (the flu) are both infectious respiratory illnesses.  COVID-19 is caused by one virus now called SARS-COV-2.  Flu is caused by several different viruses such Flu A or Flu B.

Both can be spread person to person through droplets in the air from an infected person from coughing, sneezing and /or talking.  Experts also believe that COVID-19 might be spread through the airborne route. The tiny droplets might remain in the air and cause disease in people even after the ill person is no longer near them.

Symptoms for both can be mild, Secondly, both viruses are transmitted by contact, droplets and fomites. As a result, the same public health measures, such as hand hygiene and good respiratory etiquette (coughing into your elbow or into a tissue and immediately disposing of the tissue), are important actions all can take to prevent infection. Secondly, both viruses are transmitted by contact, droplets and fomites. As a result, the same public health measures, such as hand hygiene and good respiratory etiquette (coughing into your elbow or into a tissue and immediately disposing of the tissue), are important actions all can take to prevent infection.  severe and even fatal. Both can be spread by an infected person for several days before their symptoms appear. On average, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) explains that the incubation period for Influenza is approximately 1- 4 days. Whereas, the incubation period for COVID-19 is anywhere between 2-14 days. That means a person could potentially be spreading the COVID-19 virus to those around them for up to 14 days without even realizing they are contagious. People who get COVID-19 might have a fever, dry cough and shortness of breath. Individuals who get the flu might have a fever, chills, sore throat, body aches, runny nose and fatigue.

If you believe you have been exposed to COVID-19, it is important to call your healthcare provider or urgent care center for guidance on what to do next.  Regardless of whether you think you have COVID-19 or the flu if you experience any shortness of breath or difficulty breathing it is necessary to be seen by a doctor as soon as possible.

For more information, check out the Resource of the Month and other questions on COVID-19.  You can also contact the CDC or call their Hotline: 800-232-4636 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.