Influenza
What is it?
The flu, also known influenza, is a respiratory illness caused by different viruses. The flu can be mild or severe, and even lead to hospitalization or death. Certain groups of people, including young children, pregnant women, older adults and people with underlying health conditions may be at risk for serious complications. An annual flu vaccine can help prevent getting sick. The CDC recommends, with few exceptions, that everyone six months and older get a flu vaccine at the start of every flu season, ideally in September or October.
What are influenza symptoms?
Flu symptoms can be similar to cold symptoms, but they’re generally more severe; they can also be similar to COVID-19 symptoms. Common flu symptoms include:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Headache
- Runny/stuffy nose
- Muscle/body aches
- Fatigue
- Vomiting/diarrhea (more common in children)
How long do influenza symptoms last?
Some people with the flu will recover in a few days, while others may take closer to two weeks. If complications arise, recovery could take longer and require medical assistance.
When should you see a doctor about influenza symptoms?
There are many types of flu symptoms that demand medical attention, and while the following list includes a number of them, it’s not conclusive. Always call your doctor if you’re concerned about a symptom such as:
- Fast breathing/trouble breathing
- Chest pain/pressure
- Severe muscle pain
- Dehydration/not urinating
- Not alert/interaction when awake; confused; dizzy
- Seizures
- Severe weakness
- Fever or cough that improves but then return/worsens
- Chronic medical conditions that worsen
COVID-19
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19, which is a new type of coronavirus, is a respiratory illness that can impact people in different ways, with some people experiencing symptoms similar to the flu. Like the flu, COVID-19 symptoms can range from mild to severe, and older adults and people with underlying health conditions may be at greater risk of developing serious complications. Unlike the flu, there is not yet a vaccine for COVID-19.
What are COVID-19 symptoms?
Health care professionals are still learning about COVID-19. The following list includes a number of potential symptoms, but not all symptoms. Call your health care provider if you think you might have COVID-19 and arrange to get tested.
- Fever/chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath/difficulty breathing
- Muscle/body aches
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Runny/stuffy nose
- Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
How long do COVID-19 symptoms last?
Mild cases tend to last one to two weeks, while more severe cases can last six weeks or more, and cause lasting damage.
When should you see a doctor about COVID-19 symptoms?
COVID-19 can lead to serious complications and even death. Call for help immediately if experiencing the following symptoms:
- Difficulty breathing
- Ongoing pain/pressure in the chest
- A sense of confusion
- Trouble staying awake or waking up
- Blue tint to the lips or face