Everyone knows that the flu is a respiratory illness. But did you know that there are many different types of flu? Influenza A and B viruses can cause the flu with fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, and fatigue. And then some rhinoviruses can cause the common cold. 

Of course, it’s not just these illnesses that make us want to stay away from crowded areas for a week or two; co-infectious viral meningitis is also called co-infection of viral encephalitis (COVID-19). The COVID-19 virus causes lethargy, blurring vision, confusion, dilated pupils, and more. The difference between the flu and COVID-19 is so important to know because it will dictate how you should take care of yourself in case one of these viruses comes knocking on your door.

 

What’s the difference between the flu, COVID-19, and allergies?

COVID-19 is a viral infection caused by SARS-CoV, while the influenza virus causes flu. Both can be passed on from one person to another, especially in crowded areas without proper ventilation.

Both diseases are passed on through particles that come out of an individual’s mouth when they talk, cough, or sneeze. Flu and Covid -19 have similar symptoms -Both can cause a fever, cough, headaches, and body aches.

Another difference between flu and Covid 19 is the length of days the signs and symptoms take to appear after infection. While flu symptoms appear 2-4 days after infection, Covid-19 symptoms appear 5-14 days after infection.

Both Flu and Covid-19 have overlapping symptoms like lack of smell. The only way to ascertain and distinguish between the two viruses is by getting tested.

Allergies: Allergies are an acute form of hypersensitivity that causes symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, itchy eyes, cough, and congestion.

Flu: The flu is a contagious respiratory illness characterized by fever, cough, sore throat, and body aches. It’s caused by influenza viruses from other animals such as birds or pigs. Symptoms are often less severe than those seen with COVID-19.

 

How do you know if you have a COVID-19 infection?

If you think you might have COVID-19, there are some physical signs to watch out for. If you experience any of these symptoms while sick, it’s important to get tested as soon as possible:

-nausea

-headache

-blurred vision

-dilated pupils

-confusion

-lethargy