TRENDS
Understanding the Differences What are the differences between Influenza (Flu) and COVID-19? The CDC explains.
Influenza (Flu) and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but
(asymptomatic) to severe symptoms.
they are caused by different viruses, according to the CDC.
Common symptoms of COVID-19
“COVID-19 is caused by infection with a new coronavirus (called SARS-CoV-2) and flu is caused by infection with influenza viruses,” the CDC said on its website. “Because some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar, it may be hard to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone, and testing may be needed to help
and flu include:
ʯ Fever or feeling feverish/chills ʯ Cough ʯ Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
confirm a diagnosis. Flu and COVID-19 share many characteristics, but there are some key differences between the two.
While more is learned every day, there is
12
Signs and symptoms
ʯ ʯ ʯ ʯ ʯ ʯ
Fatigue (tiredness) Sore throat Runny or stuffy nose Muscle pain or body aches Headache
still a lot that is unknown about COVID-19
Similarities
and the virus that causes it. The following
Both COVID-19 and flu can have
table compares COVID-19 and flu, given
varying degrees of signs and symp-
and diarrhea, though this is more
the best available information to date.
toms, ranging from no symptoms
common in children than adults
Some people may have vomiting
September 2020 | The Journal of Healthcare Contracting
