Viral infection with chills fever body aches and dry cough

Every year as the summer winds down and school resumes, we all know that flu season is just around the corner. But once again, this year’s annual flu season will start up during the COVID-19 pandemic....

You’ve probably heard that COVID-19 and the flu share a lot of the same symptoms. And maybe you’re even feeling a little under the weather right now. So, how do you tell the difference between COVID-19 symptoms and flu symptoms? The short answer is: It can be tricky. But we’re here to help.

The only way to truly diagnose whether you have the flu or COVID-19 is through testing. But knowing the symptoms of each can help you determine what to do next. Below, we provide an overview of both viruses, similarities and differences between symptoms, when you should get care and more.

COVID-19 vs. the flu: What’s the difference between these two viruses?

The flu and COVID-19 are both highly contagious respiratory illnesses, but they’re caused by different viruses.

The flu is caused by influenza viruses – usually Influenza A or Influenza B viruses – which we experience during our annual flu season.

There are a lot of influenza viruses out there – and flu vaccines have been around since the mid-1940s. Each year, specific flu vaccines are recommended to fight the strains of influenza that research indicates will be the most common that season. So, when you make a flu shot appointment, you’ll get the vaccine chosen for the most recent flu season.

COVID-19 is caused by a new coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2. Our bodies had never experienced this type of virus before the beginning of the pandemic – which means our bodies hadn’t had a chance to build antibodies to fight it – and we didn’t have vaccines to help protect us. But now, COVID-19 vaccines are readily available for most people, including kids and teens.

COVID-19 continues to change and there are now multiple variants of the coronavirus – some of which are more contagious or have different types of symptoms. The good news is that the COVID-19 vaccines continue to be effective at reducing your chance of getting severe COVID-19 symptoms. There are also COVID-19 medications and treatments available to help reduce the chance of severe illness.

Can the flu turn into COVID-19?

No. The flu cannot turn into COVID-19. And COVID-19 cannot turn into the flu. Again, these two illnesses are caused by different viruses.

Is it possible to have COVID-19 and the flu at the same time?

Yes. It is possible to be infected with the flu and COVID-19 at the same time. Having both infections at once is sometimes referred to as being sick with flurona. Getting both the flu shot and the COVID-19 vaccine will reduce your chance of getting co-infections.

Can I still get sick after I get the flu shot?

If you received your annual flu shot, it’s still possible for you to get the flu. Similarly, if you’ve been fully vaccinated against COVID-19, it’s possible for you to get breakthrough COVID-19. But if you do get COVID-19, you’ll likely have a mild case that can be treated at home.

How are symptoms of COVID-19 different from the flu?

Similarities between COVID-19 symptoms and flu symptoms

Respiratory illnesses often share similar symptoms. That’s because your respiratory system is in charge of helping you breathe, and includes your airways, lungs and blood vessels. So when bacteria or viruses get in, the whole system can be affected and cause similar symptoms.

The most prominent symptoms that COVID-19 and the flu can have in common include:

• Fever of more than 100 degrees Fahrenheit
• Chills
• Headache
• Cough
• Muscle pain and body aches
• Fatigue (extreme tiredness or lack of energy) and weakness
• Nausea or vomiting (more common in children than adults)
• Diarrhea (more common in children than adults)

Differences between COVID-19 symptoms and flu symptoms

While there are many similarities between COVID-19 and flu symptoms, there are some specific differences, depending on the COVID-19 variant, including:

Symptom onset

The flu comes on suddenly. Usually the first signs of the flu appear anywhere from one to four days after infection. COVID-19 symptoms can be more gradual. While COVID-19 symptoms can develop as early as two days after you’re infected, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says five days after infection is typical. Plus, it’s possible to be infected with COVID-19 but not show any symptoms for up to 14 days – and some people may not have any symptoms at all.

Cough type and severity

The flu usually causes a mild, dry cough. Some variants of COVID-19, such as Delta, can cause severe cough symptoms that are dry, persistent and leave you short of breath. However, some strains of COVID-19, like the Omicron variant, are less likely to affect your lungs, so a cough may not be one of the COVID-19 symptoms you have and could be difficult to distinguish from a cold.

The presence of a fever

One question that we’ve been hearing a lot is, “Can you have COVID-19 and not have a fever?” The answer is yes. While you’ll almost always have a fever with the flu, it’s possible to have COVID-19 without a fever.

COVID-19 is sometimes more like a cold

Your COVID-19 symptoms depend a lot on the variant you have. The Delta variant typically comes with high fever and a painful cough. However, the common symptoms of the Omicron variant are a stuffy or runny nose, a sore throat and a headache – symptoms more likely with a cold versus a flu.

But even if COVID-19 feels like a cold, it’s still very contagious. And, it’s possible that if it spreads to others, they could get much sicker – especially if they’re older, have weakened immune systems or are unvaccinated. So, consider getting tested for COVID-19, when you have cold or flu-like symptoms even if you don’t have a fever.

Unique symptoms

There are some COVID-19 symptoms that don’t typically overlap with the flu or the common cold, including:

• New and sudden loss of taste or smell
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Having these symptoms doesn’t mean that you have COVID-19, but it could be more likely. If your symptoms are severe, seek immediate medical care. Call 911 if you have shortness of breath, persistent pain or pressure in your chest, or have a hard time staying awake.

Do you have flu or COVID-19 symptoms? Get the care you need.

Is there a difference between COVID-19 and flu symptoms in adults and children? Men and women?

We’re often asked if flu symptoms in children are different than in adults. And this has become one of the most common questions about COVID-19.

Generally speaking, COVID-19 symptoms and influenza symptoms are the same for men and women – young or old. However, those with severe underlying medical conditions seem to be at higher risk for more serious complications. Also, there are a couple things to note when it comes to COVID-19 symptoms in children.

Gastrointestinal issues are more common in kids

For both COVID-19 and the flu, when vomiting, nausea or diarrhea happens, it’s usually more common in children than adults. This also means that the risk of dehydration can increase. So, parents should watch for signs of dehydration such as dry mouth, no tears when crying, or no urine for 8 or more hours.

COVID-19 has been linked to another condition in kids

When it comes to COVID-19, adults make up most of the known cases to date. However, some children have developed what’s called multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-C). MIS-C is a condition where different parts of the body (not just the respiratory system) become inflamed. So, in addition to common COVID-19 and flu symptoms like fever, fatigue, vomiting or diarrhea, other symptoms can include abdominal pain, neck pain, rash and bloodshot eyes.

Right now, information on this condition is limited, but the CDC is working closely with local health departments to learn more. If you want to learn more about the condition, we encourage you to visit the CDC’s MIS-C information page.

Comparing COVID-19 and flu symptoms

We’ve gone through the symptom similarities and differences between the flu and COVID-19. But here’s how they compare side-by-side.

What to do if you have COVID-like or flu-like symptoms

COVID-19 and influenza are highly contagious viruses. If you’re experiencing any symptoms or you’re not sure if your symptoms are a match, don’t worry. Here are a few steps you can take:

Stay home until you’ve been tested for COVID-19

In general, it’s recommended that you stay home if you have a fever and for at least 24 hours after your fever goes away (without the help of medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen). If you don’t have a fever, but you have other COVID-19 or flu symptoms, it’s best to get a COVID-19 test or talk to a doctor before you’re around other people.

If you’re negative for COVID-19, home treatments for the flu might be all you need. But if you’re positive for COVID-19, you’ll want to take extra steps to self-isolate when treating COVID-19 at home – and be on the lookout for more serious symptoms.

Call one of our care lines for advice

Our care lines allow you to talk directly with a nurse 24/7, 365 days a year completely free of charge. They can help you decide if it’s time to see a doctor, as well as provide helpful home remedy advice. To get in touch, call the HealthPartners CareLine℠ at 800-551-0859 or the Park Nicollet Nurse Line at 952-993-4665.

Get treatment and care virtually

Whether you’re stuck at home with a fever or you aren’t ready to leave your house just yet, there are a couple ways to get quality virtual care that fits your preferences.

Make a video visit appointment for face-to-face care from a doctor or nurse practitioner. With video visits, your doctor will listen to your symptoms, answer questions and work with you to create a tailored treatment plan if needed. For example, your doctor may prescribe antivirals to treat the flu.

Start a virtual visit anytime, anyplace through Virtuwell. With Virtuwell, no appointment is necessary – and treatment is available 24/7. Getting started is easy. We’ll ask you a few questions, and you’ll get your diagnosis and treatment plan from a board-certified nurse practitioner.

Try to relax and take care of yourself

If you’re not feeling well or you’ve been officially diagnosed with an illness, try to get lots of rest and stay hydrated. Also, talk with your doctor about which over-the-counter medications they recommend to help reduce your fever, aches and pains.

Go to the emergency room if serious symptoms arise

Both the flu and COVID-19 can have serious complications. Go to your nearest emergency room if you or your child is experiencing any of the following symptoms:

• Difficulty breathing
• Flu-like symptoms that improved but then returned worse
• Chest pain or pressure
• Sudden dizziness or confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting

And, more specifically for children, go to the emergency room if your child:

• Is less than 3 months old and has a fever above 100.4° Fahrenheit
• Is between 3 months old and 3 years old, has a fever above 100.4° Fahrenheit, and is showing signs of dehydration (e.g. dry eyes or mouth, hasn’t urinated in several hours)
• Has a fever with a rash
• Has skin or lips that have turned gray or blue
• Is extremely irritable
• Is not eating or drinking
• Is not waking up or interacting with you

What can you do to stay as healthy as possible? Get your COVID-19 vaccine and annual flu shot

The best way to protect yourself and others from influenza and COVID-19 is by getting vaccinated for both viruses.

When you get a flu shot, you’re up to 60% less likely to get the flu, according to the CDC. And studies also show that even if you do get sick, your flu symptoms will be less severe and you’re less likely to need hospital care to recover.

When it comes to COVID-19 vaccinations, data suggests all currently authorized vaccines are effective in preventing illness from COVID-19, with the greatest protection coming against severe illness, hospitalization and death.

It’s also important to know it’s possible to test positive for the flu and COVID-19, as well as other respiratory conditions, at the same time. This can increase your risk of severe complications.

Schedule your vaccinations today

Want to get a flu shot and a COVID-19 vaccine at the same time?

Call your local clinic