COVID-19 and the flu are very similar viruses, yet they are completely different. With all the talk of a “twindemic” this winter, it’s important to know what separates the flu from the coronavirus.

Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care NC highlights the key differences between the two viruses and how you can know which one you have if you fall under the weather this winter.

What Is the Flu?

The flu is a respiratory illness that is caused by an infection with an influenza virus. Even though the flu and COVID-19 are both viral respiratory illnesses, they’re caused by two separate viruses.

Because many of the symptoms of the two illnesses are similar, the only definitive way to know what you’re experiencing is to undergo testing. There are reputable, reliable tests for both COVID-19 and the flu.

Common Flu Symptoms

• Joint and muscle aches
• Pain and tiredness around the eyes
• Weakness or extreme fatigue
• Warm, flushed skin and red, watery eyes
• Frequent headaches
• Fever

What Is COVID-19?

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness that is caused by an infection with a new coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2. While symptoms of COVID-19 and the flu are similar, the thing that makes the coronavirus so scary is the fact that many who have tested positive for COVID-19 have not experienced any noteworthy symptoms.

This is what makes this virus so dangerous. Experts do say, however, that if you do experience noticeable symptoms, two of the most telling signs of COVID-19 are a new loss of taste or smell and difficulty breathing. If you experience these symptoms, including some of the ones we’ve listed below, it’s important to schedule a COVID-19 test at one of our AFC Urgent Care NC centers ASAP.

More Symptoms of COVID-19

• Cough
• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fever or chills
• Headaches

AFC Urgent Care NC wishes you a healthy and much happier new year! If you do find yourself feeling less than your best, however, don’t wait to visit one of our urgent care centers.