COVID and Flu cases increasing in US. Here is how you can spot differences and stay safe

As the weather grows colder in the US, influenza and COVID cases are increasing and so are increasing hospitalizations for COVID-19. While COVID-19 cases have increased the most in the midwestern and northeastern parts of the country, the rate of influenza sickness is highest in the southern part. Medical experts have warned that the season for respiratory illnesses will intensify during December and an increased rate of travel and gathering under one room may be dangerous.

Symptoms of Flu

Fever

Chills
Cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle or body aches
Headaches
Fatigue
Vomiting
Diarrhea

Symptoms of COVID-19

Runny or stuffy nose
Headache
Fatigue
Sneezing
Sore throat
Coughing
Changes to sense of smell

Difference between COVID-19 and influenza symptoms

While influenza and COVID-19 share many symptoms, some symptoms are more common for one illness than the other.

Symptoms associated with both influenza and COVID-19

Fevers
Chills
Coughing
Fatigue
Sore throat
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Nausea

Symptoms more common with influenza

Headaches
Body aches
Congestion

Symptoms more common with COVID-19

Shortness of breath
Loss of taste and smell

How to protect from COVID and the flu

Mask
A mask effectively blocks the particulates that cause their spread, so it is useful in both COVID and influenza. A KN95 or N95 mask is the best to block these airborne particles.

COVID-19 Tests
It should be noted that the symptoms of COVID-19 often overlap with those of influenza or the common cold. Experts advise using an at-home rapid COVID-19 test to see if you have been exposed to someone with COVID-19.

Hand sanitizer
Hand sanitizer is extremely useful as the flu can be spread by touching your eyes, nose, or mouth after touching a surface coated with contaminated particles. Doctors advise to wash hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer

FAQs:

In which part of the US have COVID-19 cases increased?
COVID-19 cases have increased the most in the midwestern and northeastern parts of the country, while the rate of influenza sickness is highest in the southern part.

How does a mask stop COVID from spreading?
A mask effectively blocks the particulates that cause their spread, so it is useful in both COVID and influenza. A KN95 or N95 mask is the best to block these airborne particles.