How are COVID-19 and the flu similar?

How COVID-19 and flu spread

The viruses that cause COVID-19 and the flu spread in similar ways. They can both spread between people who are in close contact (within 6 feet, or 2 meters). The viruses spread through respiratory droplets or aerosols released through talking, sneezing or coughing. These droplets can land in the mouth or nose of someone nearby or be inhaled. These viruses can also spread if a person touches a surface with one of the viruses on it and then touches his or her mouth, nose, or eyes.

COVID-19 and flu symptoms

COVID-19 and the flu have many signs and symptoms in common, including:

• Fever
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Tiredness
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting, but this is more common in children than in adults

The signs and symptoms of both diseases can range from no symptoms to mild or severe symptoms. Because COVID-19 and the flu have similar symptoms, it can be hard to diagnose which condition you have based on your symptoms alone. Testing may be done to see if you have COVID-19 or the flu. You can also have both diseases at the same time.

COVID-19 and flu complications

Both COVID-19 and the flu can lead to serious complications, such as:

• Pneumonia
• Acute respiratory distress syndrome
• Organ failure
• Heart attacks
• Heart or brain inflammation
• Stroke
• Death

Many people with the flu or mild symptoms of COVID-19 can recover at home with rest and fluids. But some people become seriously ill from the flu or COVID-19 and need to stay in the hospital.