COVID-19 and Flu symptoms – what is the difference?
As flu season approaches you may be thinking, what symptoms does COVID-19 present that differ from influenzas?
Both viruses are considered to cause respiratory diseases and are transmitted through contact, small droplets and objects that have traces of the virus.
The symptoms caused by COVID-19 and influenza are similar but have unique differences. COVID-19 symptoms take longer to develop (1 -14 days), appear more gradually and many people have been found to only experience mild symptoms. While influenza symptoms are typically experienced within a few days of coming in to contact with the virus and occur more abruptly.
The flu vaccine is now available in South Africa
The vaccine does not protect you against COVID-19, but it will protect you against this year’s seasonal flu.
If you experience any COVID-19 like symptoms make sure you stay home, except to get medical care. Stay in touch with your healthcare professional or contact the 24-hour hotline number 0800 029 999,
It is advised to separate yourself from others while you monitor your symptoms and seek medical care. It is also important to wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth to avoid infecting others.
In all cases of COVID-19 or influenza, follow the guidelines provided by the Department of Health. We encourage you to continue practicing safe hygiene and social distancing and to only go out of your homes to purchase necessities, to decrease the risk of infection.
Resources
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/steps-when-sick.html
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/treatment/index.html
https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/q-a-coronaviruses
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/coronavirus-vs-flu
