COVID-19 Versus the Flu: What’s the Difference?
May 6, 2020
You’re lounging on the couch Netflixing when that feeling slowly creeps up on you: a full-on body ache and waves of nausea, closely followed by a relentless cough that leaves you feeling like you swallowed barbwire.
You break out into a sweat: is it the flu or COVID-19?
The truth is that both illnesses, the flu (caused by the influenza virus) and COVID-19 (caused by the coronavirus), are infectious respiratory illnesses. Symptoms may be similar, but different viruses cause these particular illnesses.
Similar symptoms include fever, cough, bodily aches and fatigue, and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea. Both conditions cause symptoms that range from mild to severe and can lead to pneumonia. In a small percentage of instances, either one of these conditions can lead to death.
Say it, Don’t Spray It!
Now, where it gets tricky is when we talk about transmission. Both viruses are spread from person to person via droplets or spittle when the infected person coughs, sneezes, or merely is talking, with the droplets landing on the mouth or in the nose of a person within close proximity.
COVID-19 Airborne?
Some research suggests that the difference between these viruses is that COVID-19 may be spread via an airborne route. This means that the droplets are smaller and can travel farther distances, lingering longer in the air than droplets expelled by a person infected with the influenza virus. It’s important to note that the jury is still out on whether or not the coronavirus is spread via airborne routes.
However, what both viruses have in common is that they can be spread unwittingly from person to person several days before symptoms appear.
Bacterial Versus Viral Infections
Infections caused by viruses are treated differently than those caused by bacterial infections. Quite simply, antibiotics are ineffective for treating conditions caused by viruses, like the flu or COVID-19.
Prevention is Key
For COVID-19 sufferers, symptoms can be addressed to provide some comfort, but that’s the only real relief available. What’s critical is preventing the spread of the virus through handwashing, social distancing, and wearing a face-covering when in public.
If you feel that you have COVID-19 or the flu, click here to make an appointment for a telemedicine appointment. All suspected COVID-19 cases will be directed to a COVID-19 drive-thru testing site.
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The entire staff was very caring. I had my toddler with me and she was a bit rowdy and they gave her crayons with coloring pages and stickers and even a lollipop to help keep her occupied.
My son scribbled on a piece of paper and handed it to one of the woman in the front, saying that is say how his ears hurt, she accepted it and posted it on the artwork wall, when the PA came in to see him he was made to feel like a big deal because he had known about the paper. This is a place where the staff really cares about their patients and go the extra mile for them
Have been there a few times and hey have always been very fast, kind, courteous and welcoming. Always very helpful especially the front desk. The employee Heather helped me with pharmacy, paperwork and everything I needed help with. Only quick care I go too because of her.
I absolutely love our nurse Tiffany. She made our visit so comfortable. I had two very sick little boys who did not want to go to the Dr. She made the at ease in an instant and she took such great care of them. This was at the Quick care on 441 in Ocala Fl. I'll go back to this one because of her. And recommended to all my friends and family. Thanks so much!
A Big THANK YOU, to the Staff at Quick Care Med, in Dunnellon!! My Husband was seen, for a couple different ailments, during his visit,, and the Two Practitioners who worked with Him, were AWESOME! They treated my Big, 200 pound, 6 ft. "Baby",, with Respect, Dignity, and Professionalism, and just the right amount of Calming Firmness!! Lol... he's afraid of Needles, and Doctor Offices, in general and I must say, that GWEN, & DEBBIE, were very good to him! Prices for services rendered, were ve
Great sweet people
I was there yesterday and I've never felt so shocked. The 3 girls I interacted with were the most pleasant and friendly caregivers I've ever dealt with. Idr the rep's name, but she was quick and prompt at taking all my info and with minimal Qs (kinda hard to answer when I have a cold), then Alexis took over. Very sympathetic, nice, and helpful. Then the physician saw me and was charismatic and very funny. Trying to keep me in good spirits. It was like all 3 were happy to be at their posts and to
Anytime, we've ever been there, all of the physicians are very caring and helpful, they don't rush or make you feel unimportant... I wish we could have them as our GP
Very friendly,professional. Very caring of patients.Victoria was excellent. Took time to listen and made you feel comfortable.
We had Zaib Kahn as the provider and NEVER have I seen such a good bedside manner, as they call it! AND he personally called this a.m. to ask how my husband is feeling! (The pharmacy was closed when we left the ofc., and they asked us to allow until 11 to pick up the RXs, but that's NOT YOUR fault ;D I'm thrilled w/ Mr. Kahn's service and may well use your clinic for ALL my medical needs!!!! THANK YOU
Professional staff, caring and organized. Prompt service for DOT related visits.
The absolute BEST! Everyone here is so nice! We've had to come in a few times & they've always taken great care of us. We're usually out within 20-30 min. All the girls up front are very nice & helpful (you don't find that too often), so is the girl that takes your vitals. Dr B is the amazing! He takes his time to listen to what's wrong & always has a big smile. If we could have this office as our primary care location we would
