As cases of COVID- 19 reaches over 1 million, it is important to understand the difference between the virus and flu. The symptoms of COVID-19 and flu are very similar and they are both transmitted the same way.
How To Tell the Difference
There are symptoms of flu that are rare when it comes to COVID-19. The symptoms of flu appear sooner as compared to those of COVOD-19.
Muscle pain and headache that people with flu may experience is very rare for people with COVID-19.
A fever is common for both people with flu and COVID-19. Cough and fatigue are also common for both those with flu and COVID-19. Runny nose, nasal congestion, diarrhea, and sore throat sometimes happen in both flu and COVID-19.
Loss of appetite is common in flu but can sometimes happen if a person has COVID-19.
Shortness of breath and respiratory issues are very common in patients with COVID-19 but it is not common when it comes to people with flu. The good news is some USA have already pledged to fight against this pandemic.
Level of Contagiousness
COVID-19 is highly contagious as compared to flu. COVID-19 is twice as contagious according to reports by scientists.
Motility Rate
1 in 1000 people can die of flu, meaning the motility rate is 0.1 %. It is different when it comes to COVID-19 as 14 percent of infected patients have died. The number of people who require intensive care is much higher when it comes to COVID-19.
Groups that are Affected
Elderly people are the most affected group when it comes to COVID-19. Children and pregnant women who are usually affected by the flu are not significantly affected. Another group that is affected is those with chronic illnesses and weakened immune systems. This, however, does not mean young people should not prevent the disease as the possibility for young people to become really sick is there.
Treatment and Prevention
There is no vaccine for COVID-19. To avid COVID-19, avoid crowds, practice social distancing, maintain good hygiene by washing hands frequently and also avoid touching your face.
