There is no denying the beauty of fall, especially in Michigan and this year was no exception with the vibrant colors and beautiful places to catch the last glimpse of the season. As fall slowly gives way to colder temperatures and we start thinking of snow, slippery roads, and of course the increase of germs. This year, in particular, germs might be at the forefront of your mind due to the pandemic but winter also means flu season and unfortunately, some of the symptoms of influenza can mimic COVID-19. Here are some key similarities and differences of the flu and COVID-19 from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
THE SIMILARITIES
Both COVID-19 and flu can have varying degrees of signs and symptoms, ranging from no symptoms (asymptomatic) to severe symptoms. COVID-19 seems to cause more serious illnesses in some people, though there are some symptoms that do overlap with the Flu. Different symptoms may include change in (or loss) of taste or smell. People with COVID-19 have had a wide range of symptoms reported–ranging from mild symptoms to severe illness, and typically appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. Common symptoms that COVID-19 and flu share include:
- Fever or feeling feverish/chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue (tiredness)
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle pain or body aches
- Headache
- Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults
THE DIFFERENCES
Flu Symptoms
Influenza (flu) can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Flu is different from a cold. Flu usually comes on suddenly. People who have flu often feel some or all of these symptoms:
- fever* or feeling feverish/chills
- cough
- sore throat
- runny or stuffy nose
- muscle or body aches
- headaches
- fatigue (tiredness)
- some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.
Where Can I Get Tested for COVID-19?
Rochester Medical Group has three test sites for COVID testing.
ROCHESTER MEDICAL GROUP
633 E. South Blvd, Rochester Hills, MI 48307
Monday – Friday 9am – 4pm
(248) 844-6000 Phone
(248) 844-6159 Fax
TRIATRIA/MILLENNIUM BUILDING
32255 Northwestern Highway, Farmington Hills, MI 48334
Monday – Friday 9am – 5 pm
Saturday & Sunday 9am – 12pm
(248) 723-5880 Phone
(248) 723-5889 Fax
As you can see, the flu and COVID-19 share many traits and it can be confusing to distinguish between the two. The staff at Rochester Medical Group are doing what we can to make health care a little easier for people and are always here to answer your questions. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule an appointment.