COVID vs flu: How to differentiate between the two
Both COVID-19 and flu are infections of the upper respiratory symptoms that can spread from one person to the other. Caused by two different types of viruses, both the conditions have overlapping symptoms, making it difficult to differentiate one from the other. It delays the treatment process, which can worsen the symptoms and increase the risk of complications in case of COVID-19. Though it may take some effort, the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 can be differentiated. You just have to look for patterns and study the symptoms precisely. Here we will tell you how coronavirus infection and flu are different from each other.
Causes
Both COVID-19 and flu are viral infections, caused by two different kinds of viruses. Flu is caused by human influenza A and B viruses. Out of the two, Influenza, A virus is responsible for most cases of flu in the winter season as it is more contagious and can infect both humans and animals. On the other hand, COVID-19 is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus strain.
Symptoms of COVID-19 and flu
The severity of COVID-19 and flu symptoms varies from person to person. In the worst case, both the infections can spread to the lower respiratory system and cause pneumonia.
Cough, fever, fatigue are the three common symptoms of COVID-19 and flu. Runny nose, nasal congestion, diarrhea, sore throat, muscle pain and chills are also signs of both conditions, but may not be witnessed in all cases. The symptoms that help to differentiate COVID-19 from flu are shortness of breath and loss of taste and smell. These two signs are fairly common in case of coronavirus infection, but not in case of flu.
As per studies, COVID-19 is also more deadly as compared to flu. So, it is recommended not to take the condition lightly and get yourself tested as soon as you witness any symptoms or you have come in contact with anyone who has tested positive.
When do the signs appear
Even though both are viral infections of the upper respiratory system, the speed of transmission of the two viruses differs from each other. Flu symptoms appear sooner and can spread faster than the coronavirus. Those infected with flu typically experience symptoms within 1-4 days, while in the COVID-19 the signs may appear between 1-14 days. However, people with flu and COVID-19 can easily pass on the virus to others before they show any symptoms.
Read more: Coronavirus: Mistakes that are making you prone to COVID-19 complications
How they spread
Both SARS-CoV-2 and the flu virus can spread from one person to the other by inhaling the contaminated aerosol particle. The virus is transferred when a healthy person inhales the tiny droplets suspended in the air contaminated with viruses released by an infected person while sneezing, coughing and speaking.
These viruses can also live on the surface for days and can be transferred when a person comes in contact with them. As per the World Health Organisation (WHO), both the virus can be easily transferred to people who are 6 feet away, which is why it is recommended to maintain the distance to cut down the risk of infection.
Data suggests that the symptoms of flu can be easily transferred from children to adults. But in the case of COVID-19, kids are less likely to get infected or develop any symptoms.
Prevention
The most effective way to prevent COVID-19 and flu is through vaccination. There are different vaccines available that can cut down the risk of the two viral respiratory conditions. But as the virus keeps on mutating, only getting vaccinated does not assure your complete protection against flu or COVID-19. You also have to follow some preventive measures to stay safe:
Washing hands regularly
Avoiding touching the face
Maintain at least 6 ft away from others
Covering your mouth when sneezing or coughing
Staying at home if feeling unwell
Avoiding crowds and gatherings of any size
The bottom line
With the rising cases of omicron variant of coronavirus and drop in the temperature, there is a double threat in the form flu and coronavirus. Both the conditions affect the respiratory system and if a person develops them together, it would become more difficult for the body to fight two different kinds of viruses. Looking at the current situation, it has become even more critical to follow the norms and get vaccinated. Since COVID and flu symptoms overlap quite often, it’s best to isolate as soon as you develop symptoms. Start symptomatic treatment in consultation with your doctor. Moreover, the rate at which COVID is spreading right now, it’s only safe to get tested to rule out the possibility of a COVID infection.