During the fall, illness cases tend to skyrocket. With kids back in school and the temperatures dropping, illnesses spread quickly. There are many different conditions that circulate in the fall, including colds, COVID-19, the flu, strep throat, and more. The flu and COVID-19 are both viral infections that can lead to severe illness, especially for young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals. Keep reading to learn more about how to differentiate flu symptoms from COVID-19 symptoms.
If you’re feeling under the weather, it is important to seek medical care. Getting a medical diagnosis from a board-certified medical provider will identify the exact cause of your symptoms so that you can treat them effectively. Walk into AFC Southcenter for same-day diagnostic testing for the flu and COVID-19. We’re open Monday through Saturday and accept walk-ins, or patients can schedule their visit online using the button below.
Understanding the Differences Between COVID-19 and the Flu
COVID-19 and the flu are completely different illnesses; however, they are more similar than you may think. Both conditions are caused by a viral infection that targets the upper respiratory system. They are both very contagious from person to person and can spread quickly in schools and offices. COVID-19 symptoms tend to be milder compared to flu symptoms, but in both cases, symptoms resolve within 2 weeks. Both COVID-19 and the flu pose severe health risks to at-risk individuals, including young children, the elderly, and people with underlying health conditions.
Diagnosing Viral Infections
If you’re feeling sick, you can do some at-home detective work by buying a COVID-19 and flu testing kit. Oftentimes, stores will bundle these items together into one test for convenience. If you can’t find a testing kit, or simply want a more accurate diagnosis, your medical provider can swab your nose for common viral infections, including the flu and COVID-19. Results are often available the same day, and within a few minutes if you test at home!
Treatment Options
If you’re feeling sick you should always seek medical care. Your medical provider will be able to test for common ailments to determine the exact cause of your symptoms. Treatment options for the flu and COVID-19 are similar because viral infections cannot be treated with medications. Instead, you can focus on symptom management by using OTC medications that target specific symptoms like congestion, coughs, and sore throats. Your medical provider will be able to advise you on proper medications and dosages.
Visit AFC Southcenter for Same-Day Illness Diagnosis & Treatment
COVID-19 and the flu are both common viral infections that can spread rapidly in the fall and winter seasons. If you’re feeling sick, you should seek medical care for diagnostic testing. These illnesses are extremely contagious, so it is important to self-isolate while you’re experiencing symptoms.
At AFC Southcenter, our walk-in clinic makes it easy to receive prompt illness care. Simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient. We work with most medical insurance providers and offer affordable rates for patients paying out-of-pocket. To learn more, walk into the clinic for same-day care today, or give our team a call at (425) 291-3300.
