Flu Season and COVID-19: What You Need to Know
As the flu season arrives and COVID-19 cases continue to rise, it’s important to understand the differences between the two and how to protect yourself. NBC News Senior Medical Correspondent Dr. John Torres breaks it down for us.
Flu Activity on the Rise
According to new CDC data, the number of states with high flu activity has more than doubled in the past week, and hospital admissions for the flu are up by 34%. However, it’s important to note that we are just at the beginning of the flu season and COVID-19 cases are currently accelerating dramatically. If you start feeling sick, it’s important to assume it’s COVID-19 until proven otherwise and isolate yourself and get a test.
Hospitals Under Stress
Hospitals are already stretched thin due to the pandemic and staff shortages, and the flu season has the potential to put even more strain on them. Last year, hospitals were at capacity with COVID-19 cases and a bad flu season could push them over the tipping point. It’s important to protect yourself and others by getting the flu vaccine and practicing COVID-19 safety measures to help ease the burden on hospitals.
Comparing COVID-19 and the Flu
COVID-19 and the flu can both cause similar symptoms such as fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, but there are some key differences to be aware of. COVID-19 can lead to severe illness and death, especially in older adults or those with underlying health conditions. The flu is generally less severe, but it can still be dangerous, particularly for children and young adults. It’s important to get tested if you are experiencing any symptoms to determine the cause and receive the appropriate treatment.
Protecting Yourself and Others
The best way to protect yourself and others from both COVID-19 and the flu is to get vaccinated. There are vaccines available for both, and it’s important to get them as soon as possible to provide maximum protection. In addition, it’s important to continue practicing COVID-19 safety measures such as wearing a mask, washing your hands frequently, and practicing social distancing.
FAQs:
How can I tell the difference between COVID-19 and the flu?
Both COVID-19 and the flu can cause similar symptoms, including fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. The best way to determine the cause of your symptoms is to get tested. It's important to remember that COVID-19 can lead to severe illness and death, especially in older adults or those with underlying health conditions, while the flu is generally less severe.
How can I protect myself and others from COVID-19 and the flu?
The most effective way to protect yourself and others from both COVID-19 and the flu is to get vaccinated. There are vaccines available for both, and it's important to get them as soon as possible to provide maximum protection. In addition, it's important to continue practicing COVID-19 safety measures such as wearing a mask, washing your hands frequently, and practicing social distancing.
Are there any treatments available for COVID-19 and the flu?
There are several treatments available for both COVID-19 and the flu. For COVID-19, treatments may include antiviral medications, oxygen therapy, and mechanical ventilation. For the flu, treatment may include antiviral medications, pain relievers, and over-the-counter cold and flu medications to relieve symptoms. It's important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing severe symptoms or have underlying health conditions.
How can I reduce the spread of COVID-19 and the flu?
To reduce the spread of COVID-19 and the flu, it's important to follow recommended safety measures such as getting vaccinated, wearing a mask, washing your hands frequently, and practicing social distancing. It's also important to stay home if you are sick and avoid close contact with others who are sick.
