COVID-19 and the flu are both respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. Despite being caused by completely different viruses, COVID-19 and the flu share many similar symptoms. Fever, cough, fatigue, and body aches are common in both infections. This symptom overlap can make it difficult to distinguish between them without testing. Understanding the differences is essential for proper diagnosis, treatment, and prevention for both viruses. If you’re feeling sick, walk into AFC Urgent Care North Bergen. Our walk-in urgent care clinic offers same-day illness symptom diagnosis and treatment with no appointment necessary for patients in North Bergen, NJ, and the surrounding areas.
How to Tell the Difference Between COVID-19 vs. Flu
COVID-19 and the flu are contagious respiratory illnesses, but different viruses cause them and have distinct characteristics. The SARS-CoV-2 virus causes COVID-19, while influenza viruses cause the flu. Although they share symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, congestion, fatigue, and body aches, COVID-19 spreads more easily than the flu and is contagious for longer. Both COVID-19 and flu symptoms tend to resolve within 10 days, however flu symptoms tend to be more severe than the current strain of COVID-19.
What to Do if You Think You Have the Flu or COVID-19
Taking immediate action is important if you experience symptoms like fever and body aches in addition to other illness symptoms such as a cough, congestion, and sore throat. Start by isolating yourself to prevent spreading the virus, especially to high-risk individuals. Stay hydrated, get plenty of rest, and consider over-the-counter medications to manage fever and discomfort. Treatment for COVID-19 and the flu typically focus on symptom management while your body fights off the virus, however, there are anti-viral treatments available if administered within the first 2 days of infection which can help clear up the infection faster.
For most healthy adults, COVID-19 and the flu will both resolve on their own with time. However, seeking urgent care services is crucial if you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, confusion, or a high fever that doesn't improve with medication. COVID-19 and the flu can lead to serious complications, including pneumonia and other secondary infections.
Illness Prevention Tips
Viral infections such as COVID-19 and the flu are very contagious and can spread quickly through the air, contaminated surfaces or direct contact with an infected individual. In some cases, you may not know someone is carrying a case of COVID-19 or the flu because symptoms can take up to 2 days to appear after infection. Because of this, it is important to take preventative measures to control the spread and decrease your risk of getting sick. Washing your hands regularly throughout the day, avoiding touching your face, and keeping 6 feet of distance from others during peak respiratory illness season will greatly reduce your chances of getting sick. Getting your annual preventative COVID-19 and flu vaccinations will also help prevent severe illness if you are exposed to either virus.
Visit AFC North Bergen for Walk-In Illness Care in North Bergen, NJ
If you’re feeling sick and are worried you could have contracted COVID-19 or the flu, AFC Urgent Care North Bergen can help. Our walk-in clinic offers rapid illness diagnosis services. We have a lab on-site, allowing us to conduct diagnostic testing with fast results at the time of your visit. Based on the results, your medical provider will determine the best course of treatment to get you back to feeling your best!
Our clinic is conveniently located in North Bergen, NJ and we accept walk-in patients 7 days a week! Simply walk into the clinic for same-day care when it’s convenient for you - no appointment necessary.
