Introduction
Following the COVID-19 Pandemic which affected millions of lives and disrupted societies around the world, the public have become more conscious of their health and hygiene practices, adapting to new norms, and embracing technology to facilitate remote work and online activities. The global health crisis brought on by COVID-19 has not only transformed our daily routines but has also heightened awareness about respiratory illnesses in general. It becomes increasingly important for individuals to be well-informed about different respiratory diseases to protect themselves and their communities effectively. In this blog, we will explore the key differences between Influenza and COVID-19. Read more:
I. What is the difference between Influenza (Flu) and COVID-19?
Influenza (Flu) and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses.
Influenza or flu: is a contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory system. The influenza virus primarily targets the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. The flu virus can cause illnesses that ranges from mild to severe, and at times can be fatal. Related article: Nation Wide Reports of Increases in Case Numbers of Influenza B
Coronavirus disease or COVID-19: is an infectious disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Most people infected with the virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment. However, some will become seriously ill and require medical attention.
II. Similarities of Transmission
Influenza and COVID-19 are primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can be inhaled by people nearby, leading to infection. Both viruses can also spread by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face, particularly the eyes, nose, or mouth.
According to the Australian Government Department of Health, influenza is highly contagious and can spread rapidly, especially in crowded settings such as schools, nursing homes, and public transport. On the other hand, COVID-19 spreads similarly to influenza, but there is evidence to suggest that it may spread more easily. Read more: World Health Organization (WHO).
III. The Symptoms
While both influenza and COVID-19 share some common symptoms, there are notable differences between the two. Read through:
Common symptoms of Influenza include:
- Fever or feeling feverish/chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Fatigue
- Headache
Common symptoms of COVID-19 include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
IV. Duration of Symptom Appearance After Exposure and Infection
Similarities: Both COVID-19 and flu can have an incubation period where one or more days may pass from infection to the onset of symptoms. It's possible for individuals to be infected with the viruses without showing any symptoms for both COVID-19 and flu.
Differences: In the case of COVID-19, the time from infection to symptom development may be longer compared to the flu. A person with Flu may experience symptoms anywhere from one to four days after infection. And someone with COVID-19 may experience symptoms anywhere from two to five days, and up to 14 days after infection.
V. Contagious Period Differences
Flu
- People with flu are highly contagious during the initial 3-4 days of their illness.
- Healthy individuals can potentially infect others starting one day before symptoms appear and continuing for five to seven days after becoming sick.
- Certain individuals, particularly young children and those with weakened immune systems, may be capable of infecting others for an extended period.
COVID-19
- On average, individuals may start transmitting the COVID-19 virus 2-3 days before they feel the symptoms, reaching peak infectiousness one day before symptoms begin.
- It is possible to spread the COVID-19 virus without showing any symptoms.
- The contagious period usually lasts for around eight days from the time symptoms first appear, on average.
VI. Higher Risks of Infection
Similarities: COVID-19 and flu illness can result in severe illness and complications. Higher risks for the following groups:
- Older adults
- People of any age with specific chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), including infants and children
- People who are pregnant
However, COVID-19 seems to cause more severe illness in some people. Severe COVID-19 illness resulting in hospitalisation.
VII. Severity and Complications
Influenza and COVID-19 can both lead to severe outcomes and complications, especially in vulnerable populations.
While most cases of the flu resolve on their own, it can cause severe complications such as pneumonia, exacerbation of underlying medical conditions, and, in severe cases, even death. Children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with certain medical conditions are at a higher risk of severe flu-related complications.
COVID-19 can also lead to severe respiratory distress, pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and other life-threatening complications. According to the Australian Government Department of Health, older adults, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and obesity, are more likely to develop severe illness and face a higher risk of mortality.
VIII. Vaccination and Treatment
In Australia, annual flu vaccination campaigns are conducted to reduce the impact of influenza on public health. The flu vaccine helps protect against the most prevalent strains expected in a given season. Antiviral medications are available to treat influenza, particularly in high-risk individuals and those with severe symptoms.
As of the time of writing, COVID-19 vaccines have been developed and distributed globally, including in Australia. These vaccines play a crucial role in preventing severe illness and reducing transmission. Additionally, several treatments and therapeutics have been authorised for emergency use to manage COVID-19 symptoms and complications.
Get tested if you are feeling the symptoms for your awareness and to prevent from contaminating other individuals. Flu and Covid Combo Antigen Test are available at medcart.com.au
Wrap Up
In summary, while Influenza and COVID-19 share some similarities in symptoms and modes of transmission, they are distinct illnesses caused by different viruses. COVID-19 has proven to be more severe and challenging to control due to its higher transmissibility and the lack of pre-existing immunity in the population. By understanding the differences between these two respiratory illnesses, we can better respond to outbreaks and protect public health.
Remember, accurate information from reputable sources is crucial during times of health crises. Always refer to official government and health organisation websites for the latest updates and guidelines.
Sources
- World Health Organization (WHO). (n.d.). Coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Retrieved from https://www.who.int/health-topics/coronavirus#tab=tab_1
- Centers of Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d). Key Facts About Influenza (Flu). Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/keyfacts.htm
- Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. (n.d.) Influenza (flu) vaccine. Retrieved from https://www.health.gov.au/topics/immunisation/vaccines/influenza-flu-vaccine
- World Health Organization (WHO). (2021, December 23). How does COVID-19 spread between people?. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/questions-and-answers/item/coronavirus-disease-covid-19-how-is-it-transmitted
- Centers of Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d). Flu Symptoms & Complications. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/symptoms.htm
- Centers of Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d). Symptoms of COVID-19. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html
- Centers of Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d). Understanding Risk COVID-19. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/understanding-risk.html
- Australian Government Department of Health. (n.d.). COVID-19: Vaccines to protect Australians. Retrieved from https://www.health.gov.au/initiatives-and-programs/covid-19-vaccines
