COVID-19 vs. the Flu: How to Tell the Difference

Flu season has officially arrived, which means more and more people will be left wondering if their symptoms are the result of seasonal flu or COVID-19. Unfortunately, no internet article can provide a definitive answer—only a medical professional can administer appropriate testing and diagnose your symptoms with certainty.

With that said, there are a few key differences between flu and COVID-19 symptoms that may give you a better idea of what’s behind your illness.

Is It the Flu or Coronavirus?

The flu and COVID-19 are both highly contagious infections that are caused by viruses—the flu by influenza viruses A and B, and COVID-19 by SARS-CoV-2. Both can produce similar symptoms, which may include:

Fever and chills
Muscle and body aches
Headache
Shortness of breath
Sore throat
Cough
Fatigue

Reduced sense of taste or smell is another common symptom of COVID-19. However, it is not associated with the flu. If you feel sick and suddenly find it difficult to taste food or smell your favorite lotions or body washes, COVID-19 may be to blame.

Another factor to consider is the intensity of your symptoms. Many cases of COVID-19 are very mild. The flu, on the other hand, is usually associated with several days of disruptive symptoms and fatigue that may linger for weeks.

Your Next Step

If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, your next step should be to contact Affinity Urgent Care. Our fully equipped centers in La Marque, Alvin, and Galveston, Texas, offer telemedicine services as well as rapid COVID-19 and flu testing. Contact our friendly team today to learn more.

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"We have a special needs daughter who needed her foot looked at. Thankful that Affinity accepted her Medicaid first of all. Staff was nice, did not have a long wait, doctor was knowledgeable and understanding with our daughter, which means a lot. She was able to get x-rays done on her foot and received the results before we left. A great place to go on short notice."

"Facility was very clean. Very short wait. The doctor and x-ray tech were great!!"

"Fast and friendly. Was in and out in about an hour, and the PA and nurses were great. Much better experience than the ER."

"The Affinity care clinic in Galveston was wonderful. I walked in Memorial Day (without an appointment) and was seen by a very courteous and helpful staff. I highly recommend them."

"My experience at this urgent care facility was a pleasant one. I brought my daughter in due to an allergic reaction. The staff members there were awesome!"