Summer is winding down, and as the weather cools, flu season starts to pick up steam. Respiratory illnesses like the flu, the common cold, and the coronavirus become more prevalent between October and May, usually peaking from December to February. In the 2022–2023 flu season, the CDC estimates that there were roughly 27–54 million flu cases. There were somewhere between 300,000 and 600,000 hospitalizations due to respiratory infections.

Respiratory illnesses like those listed above usually cause similar symptoms. Because of this, it can be hard to tell whether or not you are managing a cold, the flu, or COVID-19. Understanding the differences between these diseases can help you take the necessary precautions during this coming flu season. A general understanding of these illnesses and their symptoms can also help you get the proper treatment sooner.

Flu Causes and Symptoms

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious viral infection that primarily affects the respiratory system, encompassing the nose, throat, and lungs. It is most prevalent and easily transmitted from one person to another during the period spanning from October to May. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the flu primarily spreads through minuscule droplets released when an infected individual talks, sneezes, or coughs. Symptoms of the flu tend to manifest suddenly and are typically more intense than those associated with a typical cold.

Common symptoms of the flu include:

• Fever
  
• Body aches
  
• Cough
  
• Sore throat
  
• Chills or sweating
  
• Runny or stuffy nose
  
• Fatigue
  
• Headache
  
• Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children than adults)
  
  

The flu often causes mild symptoms that may disappear within one to two weeks. However, specific individuals face a higher risk of flu-related complications. This high-risk group includes older adults, individuals with weakened immune systems, children, and those with underlying medical conditions, all of whom may experience severe illness or complications like pneumonia due to the flu. The CDC advises getting an annual flu shot to reduce the spread of the flu and alleviate symptoms more effectively. The flu vaccines offer protection against various strains of the influenza virus.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends an annual influenza vaccination for:

• Pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy
  
• Children between 6 months and 5 years of age
  
• Adults older than 65 years of age
  
• Individuals managing chronic health conditions
  
• Health care workers
  
  

The flu vaccine is recommended for all individuals to reduce the risk of contracting infectious diseases like the flu.

COVID-19 Causes and Symptoms

COVID-19, short for Coronavirus Disease 2019, is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. COVID-19 primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes, and it can also spread by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face. Symptoms of COVID-19 can range from mild to severe. Efforts to combat COVID-19 have included vaccination campaigns, social distancing, mask-wearing, and widespread testing to reduce transmission and protect public health.

Common symptoms of COVID-19 include:

• Fever or chills
  
• Cough
  
• Fatigue
  
• Muscle or body aches
  
• Headache
  
• Loss of taste or smell
  
• Sore throat
  
• Congestion or runny nose
  
• Nausea or vomiting
  
• Diarrhea
  
  

These symptoms vary in severity from person to person. Some people experience symptoms akin to a common cold, while others experience trouble breathing and an intense fever, often resulting in hospitalization. Along with preventive measures, it is recommended that adults and children over 6 months of age receive the COVID-19 vaccine to protect against illness and severe complications.

People at high risk for severe COVID-19 infections include:

• Adults older than 65 years of age
  
• Individuals with a history of lung problems, including asthma
  
• Individuals with a history of heart disease
  
• Individuals with liver or kidney disease
  
• Individuals with weakened immune systems
  
• Individuals with diabetes or obesity
  
• Individuals with Down syndrome
  
  

Severe complications of COVID-19 infections include:

• Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS): A life-threatening condition where the lungs become severely inflamed, making breathing difficult.
  
• Pneumonia: An infection of the lung tissue that can cause severe respiratory symptoms.
  
• Multi-organ Failure: COVID-19 can affect multiple organs, leading to organ failure, particularly in extreme cases.
  
• Sepsis: A systemic inflammatory response that can result from a severe infection, potentially leading to organ dysfunction.
  
• Blood Clots: COVID-19 can increase the risk of blood clots, potentially leading to strokes, deep vein thrombosis, or pulmonary embolism.
  
• Acute Kidney Injury: Kidney damage can occur, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney conditions.
  
• Heart Problems: COVID-19 can cause heart inflammation (myocarditis) and lead to heart-related complications.
  
• Neurological Symptoms: Some individuals may experience neurological issues such as confusion, loss of taste or smell, or stroke.
  
• Long COVID: Some people experience persistent symptoms, often referred to as "long COVID," including fatigue, brain fog, and respiratory issues, even after recovering from the acute phase of the illness.
  
• Death: In severe cases, COVID-19 can be fatal, particularly in older adults and individuals with underlying health conditions.
  
  

It's important to note that while severe complications are possible, most COVID-19 cases result in mild to moderate symptoms, and many individuals recover without experiencing these severe outcomes. A COVID-19 immunization can also help reduce the risk of complications caused by the disease.

A quick symptom check can help differentiate between these two illnesses:

Flu Treatment

The primary approach to managing most flu cases involves self-care and rest, as antibiotics are ineffective against viral infections and cannot hasten recovery. Here's a list of treatment strategies to alleviate flu symptoms while you await recovery. Discussing the most suitable treatment plan with your healthcare provider during your appointment is advisable.

If you're feeling under the weather, stay home and avoid close contact with family members or loved ones until you feel better. These preventive measures can help stop the spread of the flu.

Most flu cases can be treated at home with simple self-care strategies.

These include:

Over-the-counter medication: OTC pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help relieve muscle aches and reduce fever. Do not give aspirin to children under 17, as it has been known to cause a rare but possibly lethal disease, Reyes syndrome.

Fluids: Drink plenty of water, broths, and juices to prevent dehydration. Rest: Avoid strenuous activities and aim for at least 7-9 hours of sleep at night to help your body fight the infection and recover properly. Stay home to maintain your energy and prevent the spread of the virus.

In severe cases, your health care provider may prescribe antiviral medication to hasten recovery and prevent complications.

Antiviral medications used to treat the flu include:

• Oseltamivir: Administered through oral tablets
  
• Zanamivir: Administered through an inhaler and not recommended for people with respiratory conditions such as asthma or lung disease
  
• Peramivir: Administered through intravenous injection (IV)
  
• Baloxavir: Administered through oral tablets
  
  

To protect yourself and your loved ones against the flu, use preventive measures such as:

• Flu Vaccination: Get an annual flu vaccine, as it protects against prevalent strains.
  
• Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  
• Hand Sanitizer: Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water are unavailable.
  
• Respiratory Hygiene: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing.
  
• Avoid Close Contact: Stay away from sick individuals and maintain physical distance during flu outbreaks.
  
• Face Masks: Wear a mask in crowded or indoor settings, especially if you're at higher risk.
  
• Avoid Touching Face: Refrain from touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
  
• Clean and Disinfect: Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
  
• Stay Home When Sick: If you're sick, stay home to prevent spreading the flu to others.
  
• Good Hydration and Nutrition: Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated to support your immune system.
  
• Adequate Rest: Get enough restorative sleep to bolster your body's defenses.
  
• Travel Precautions: Be cautious when traveling, especially during flu outbreaks, and follow recommended guidelines.
  
  

Combining these measures can significantly reduce your risk of contracting and spreading the flu virus.

COVID-19 Treatment

Like the flu, COVID-19 usually goes away independently with self-care strategies and rest. As of March 2024, the CDC recommends that individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 self-isolate until they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the help of fever-reducing medications, or have seen symptom improvement for at least 24 hours. This should be followed by five days of precautions such as masking, proper ventilation, and distancing from others.

Refer to the CDC’s Respiratory Virus guidance for up-to-date protocols.

While isolating, use these self-care strategies to reduce symptoms and hasten recovery:

• Isolation: Stay in isolation to prevent the spread of the virus to others.
  
• Rest: Get plenty of rest to help your body recover.
  
• Hydration: Drink fluids like water, herbal teas, and clear broths to stay hydrated.
  
• Fever Reducers: Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and alleviate discomfort. Follow your healthcare provider's advice for medication use.
  
• Cough Suppressants: Over-the-counter cough medications may help relieve cough symptoms.
  
• Humidifier: Use a humidifier in your room to maintain comfortable humidity levels and ease respiratory symptoms.
  
• Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms and seek medical attention if they worsen or you have difficulty breathing.
  
• Nutrition: Maintain a healthy diet focusing on fruits, vegetables, and well-balanced meals to support your immune system.
  
  

Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance, especially if your symptoms are severe or you have underlying health conditions that may require specific medical attention.

A health care provider may prescribe medication for individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 and are at high risk for hospitalization or severe complications caused by the disease.

Antiviral medications used to treat COVID-19 include:

• Nirmatrelvir and ritonavir (Paxlovid): Administered as two oral tablets
  
• Molnupiravir (Lagevrio): Administered as an oral tablet
  
• Remdisivir (Veklury): Administered in a medical care setting through an IV
  
  

COVID-19 Testing

A viral PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test can differentiate between the flu and COVID-19 by targeting specific genetic material unique to the COVID-19 virus. In this test, a patient's respiratory sample, usually obtained via a nasal swab, is analyzed for the presence of genetic material from the SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. PCR amplifies and detects viral RNA or DNA sequences, and primers are designed to match distinct regions of each virus's genome. By identifying the genetic signature of COVID-19, the test can accurately determine whether or not this specific virus is responsible for the patient's symptoms, aiding in appropriate diagnosis and management.

Respiratory viruses like COVID-19 and the flu usually go away independently. Use the self-care strategies above to help yourself feel better as you isolate and rest. Early vaccinations (or boosters, in the case of COVID-19) will also help protect you and your loved ones from infection and serious illness.

If you have questions or are experiencing symptoms of a respiratory illness, book an online doctor appointment on Sesame. These convenient and affordable visits connect patients directly with licensed health care providers. Don’t let the flu sneak up on you – book a visit today to discuss your symptoms and treatment options.

Sources:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2023, May 11). People with Certain Medical Conditions. CDC.gov. https://www.cdc.gov
  
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2023, May 26). COVID-19 Treatments and Medications. CDC.gov. https://www.cdc.gov
  
• National Institutes of Health (2023, July 21). Overview of COVID-19. NIH.gov. https://www.nih.gov
  

• National Institutes of Health (2022, July 22). Influenza. NIH.gov. https://www.nih.gov
  

• Auwaerter, P. (2023). Coronavirus COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2). Johns Hopkins Medicine.
  
• Respiratory Virus Guidance. CDC.