Human coronaviruses are common throughout the world. The most recent coronavirus, COVID-19, is very similar to the influenza virus. To help you understand both viruses a little better, this chart explains how the flu and COVID-19 are similar and how they are different.
*Our understanding of COVID-19 develops and changes daily. The information provided here is based upon what is currently known about the virus.
COVID-19 is caused by infection with a new coronavirus (called SARS-CoV-2).
The flu is caused by infection with influenza viruses.
Symptoms of COVID-19 appear on average about five days after infection, but can range anywhere from two to 14 days after exposure. In addition to flu-like symptoms, COVID-19 may also include loss of taste or smell.
Flu symptoms usually appear about one to four days after exposure.
The spread of COVID-19 can begin as early as two days before symptoms appear and the virus can remain contagious for at least 10 days after.
People with the flu can spread the virus one day before symptoms appear and are typically most contagious within the first four days. They can remain contagious for about seven days.
Both COVID-19 and the flu can have complications such as respiratory failure or inflammation of the heart, brain or muscle tissues. Some more severe complications that can be associated with COVID-19 are blood clots and Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in children. Current information shows that COVID-19 has a higher mortality rate than that of the flu.
Most people with the flu can recover within two weeks.
While treatment options are being explored, no drugs are currently approved to treat COVID-19.
The flu can be treated with antiviral drugs. You can get an annual flu vaccine to help reduce your risk of influenza and serious complications.
The flu season will last until the end of March and cases occur as late as May. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccine every year.
To get the flu shot, contact your North Ohio Heart/Ohio Medical Group primary care physician, or if you don’t have one, you can find a doctor online.