Similarities and Differences Between Flu and COVID-19
When the coronavirus broke out in 2019, there was a great deal of confusion among medical professionals and the masses about how to distinguish it from regular cold and flu. Both illnesses are spread by viruses and seem to have major similarities. However, after thorough research, health organizations and experts could conclusively highlight the differences between the two.
In this blog, we will discuss what makes the two illnesses so different and how they are similar. You can also speak to a doctor online if you have any questions or queries about any medical phenomena.
Similarities
1. Symptoms
Regular influenza and COVID-19 have many common symptoms. This similarity could essentially be because they are both spread by viruses, albeit different ones. Some major symptoms are given below:
- High fever
- Coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Tiredness or lethargy
- Stuffed or runny nose
- Muscle pain
- Body aches/trembles
- Severe headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
There can be a stark difference between the symptoms depending on the immunity of the individual contracting the virus. Since both illnesses have similar symptoms, it can be difficult to identify what you have. Sometimes, you can contract influenza and COVID-19 at the same time.
2. Nature of the illness
Common cold and flu and COVID-19 are both viral respiratory diseases that spread when people come in close contact with each other. Individuals within 6 feet or 2 meters of each other are at a high risk of contracting the viral infection.
Contact with aerosols or respiratory droplets expelled when talking, coughing, or sneezing is the quickest way for the virus to spread. Unfortunately, viruses also stay on surfaces long after they have been touched. This resistance and spread is a major reason why many medical facilities hire virtual doctors for consultations worldwide.
Differences
1. Causes
COVID-19 and flu are caused by different viruses. While regular influenza is caused by influenza A and B viruses, COVID-19 is contracted when one comes across SARS-CoV-2.
2. Manifestation of symptoms
COVID-19 is a big deal for doctors and medical practitioners everywhere. It takes about 2-14 days for COVID-19 symptoms to appear, while flu symptoms are quite instantaneous, manifesting typically within 1-4 days.
3. Viral spread
COVID-19 is more contagious than regular influenza. COVID-19 has caused individuals to lose their sense of taste and smell, perhaps even permanently. COVID-19 also causes more severe lung and respiratory damage than the common flu.
According to the CDC, COVID-19 also has a higher mortality rate, killing just under a million people out of 78 million victims in the US alone. Comparatively, the flu season in the same period had a mortality rate of just about 0.06%.
Conclusion
The COVID-19 outbreak took the world by surprise. Everything has changed since, from how we operate to how the world looks at healthcare at large. However, sanitation and hygiene practices are key while trying to move forward with the new normal.
At TelMDCare, we care about our patients and do not let boundaries get in the way of providing services nationwide. Our panel of online telemedicine doctors is available for patients upon booking a consultation or even through contact with our telemedicine doctors. We cater to illnesses such as the common cold and flu as well as erectile dysfunction treatment online for our patients. Get in touch with us to find out more.