Navigating Flu Season During COVID-19

It’s fall, which means it’s also the start of flu season. Last year, the United States saw very few cases of the flu because of COVID-19 mitigation efforts such as mask wearing and social distancing. However, Timothy Donaghy, CRNP, with LVHN ExpressCARE, says this year could be different.

“While COVID remains a high priority, we need to remember the importance of protecting ourselves from the influenza virus. This includes getting vaccinated. With more people mingling with others, protection from both the flu and COVID is more important than ever,” Donaghy says.

The question on many people’s minds is how to tell the difference between COVID-19 and the flu. Unfortunately, it’s not always easy says Melanie DeLuise, CRNP, with LVPG Family Medicine.

“Many respiratory illnesses share common symptoms, including COVID-19 and the flu. The best thing that you can do to confirm your diagnosis is get tested,” she says.

According to DeLuise, flu symptoms include the sudden onset of cough, sore throat, fever, chills, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches and fatigue. In some cases, nausea and vomiting also may be present, but DeLuise says those symptoms are more common in children.

Although COVID-19 and flu symptoms are similar, one difference is the onset of the illness says DeLuise. In most cases, flu symptoms are more sudden than COVID-19 symptoms and last for less time.

“Many respiratory illnesses share common symptoms, including COVID-19 and the flu. The best thing that you can do to confirm your diagnosis is get tested,” DeLuise says.

Fortunately, there are ways to protect yourself and your family from the flu. Donaghy says the most important thing you can do is get the flu shot. “The flu shot not only reduces your risk of contracting the flu, it greatly reduces the risk of severe complications if you do get the flu,” he says.

The flu shot is available for anyone over the age of 6 months, and Donaghy recommends getting it early since it takes about two weeks to build up antibodies. There are several types of flu vaccines available, including one without eggs if you have an egg allergy.

Other ways to protect yourself and your family from the flu may sound similar to what you’ve heard about preventing the spread of COVID-19. They include frequent hand washing, not touching your eyes, mouth or nose and practicing overall good health habits such as frequent disinfecting and cleaning of surfaces and staying home when you’re sick.

To learn more about the flu or to find a flu clinic near you, visit LVHN.org/flushot.