Flu vs. COVID: Recognizing Symptoms & When to Seek Care

Distinguishing between the flu and COVID-19 can be challenging because they are both contagious respiratory illnesses with many overlapping symptoms. However, understanding their key differences is crucial for effective treatment and preventing further spread. At Ashirvad (Dr. Binod Healthcare), we are here to help you understand the signs and know when to seek professional care.

Key Differences in Symptoms

While both viruses can cause fever, cough, fatigue, and body aches, some symptoms are more common in one than the other.

• Loss of Taste or Smell: A sudden loss of taste or smell without a stuffy nose is a strong indicator of COVID-19 and is less common with the flu.

• Symptom Onset: Flu symptoms often appear suddenly, typically 1-4 days after exposure. COVID-19 symptoms can take longer to show up (2-14 days) and may present more gradually.

• Severity and Duration: COVID-19 can lead to more severe illness in some people and its symptoms, particularly shortness of breath, can last longer—for weeks or even months. The flu usually resolves within a few days to two weeks.

• Complications: While both can cause complications like pneumonia, COVID-19 can also lead to unique issues such as blood clots or multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS).

Symptom	Flu	COVID-19
Fever or Chills	Common	Common
Cough	Common	Common
Fatigue	Common	Common
Sore Throat	Common	Common
Headache	Common	Common
Body Aches	Common	Common
Shortness of Breath	Common	More severe & prolonged
Loss of Taste/Smell	Rare	Common
Nausea/Diarrhea	More common in children	Can occur at any age

When to Seek Medical Care

Because symptoms alone can't definitively differentiate between the two viruses, testing is the only way to confirm a diagnosis. However, your symptoms can guide you on when to seek medical attention.

For mild symptoms, such as a low-grade fever and cough, it's generally safe to manage your illness at home. You should:

• Rest and get plenty of sleep.

• Stay hydrated by drinking water, soups, and juices.

• Use over-the-counter medications to manage fever and body aches.

  
  

Seek medical care immediately if you or someone you know experiences any of the following emergency warning signs:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath.

• Persistent chest pain or pressure.

• New confusion or an inability to wake up or stay awake.

• Bluish lips or face.

If you have a chronic health condition or are at high risk for severe illness (e.g., elderly, pregnant, or immunocompromised), contact our Ashirvad physicians in Patna as soon as you feel sick. Early treatment with antivirals for the flu or COVID-19 can significantly reduce the risk of severe complications.