So, you woke up with a scratchy throat and suspect that if you took your temperature, it would probably read a fever. There’s no doubt about it—you’re sick. There are many different illnesses that could produce these symptoms, so it can be hard to tell what you are sick with on your own.
That’s where we come in! Our team can test you for COVID-19, strep throat and influenza in a single visit.
Our AFC Urgent Care Chapman Highway team explains more about the three different illnesses and the symptoms they share, so read on to learn more.
Are COVID-19, Strep Throat and the Flu the Same?
While all three illnesses are infections, they are caused by different things. Strep throat is caused by a bacteria, while COVID-19 and the flu are caused by different viruses. All three can be contracted by interacting with a sick person if he or she coughs or sneezes on you, or you can get sick by touching an infected surface and then touching your face.
They can all start out with similar symptoms like a fever, sore throat, body aches and a headache within a couple of days after the initial exposure. The fastest and most reliable way to get a diagnosis is to come see us for a rapid test. We can identify what is making you sick so you can feel better faster.
Different Rapid Tests at AFC
- COVID-19
- Influenza
- Strep throat
How Do You Treat COVID-19, the Flu and Strep Throat?
Coming in to see us is crucial in order to receive the proper treatment. Strep throat is a bacterial infection, so antibiotics are typically necessary to completely overcome the infection. We are looking for specific symptoms like white patches on the back of your throat and throat pain severe enough that it is hard to swallow.
COVID-19 and the flu share the most in common, but COVID-19 symptoms have the tendency to linger for a longer period of time than flu symptoms. If you are feeling sick, come see us for a quick test! Knowing what you have can can ensure that you remove yourself from work or school to prevent spreading your infection around. There are no specific treatments, like antibiotics, for COVID-19 and the flu, but there are some antiviral drugs on the market that can help you feel better faster and avoid a serious infection.
Possible Symptoms of Both COVID-19 and the Flu
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Runny nose
- Fever
Need help determining what is making you sick? Stop by AFC Urgent Care Chapman Highway for a rapid test.
