In the US, flu season occurs throughout the Fall and Winter, peaking between December and February and lasting up until as late as May. The CDC works tirelessly to determine when and where influenza activity is occurring, the type of influenza viruses that are circulating, track patterns of influenza-related illness/changes, and measure the overall impact of influenza in the United States. But it is important to take early action since this flu season is unlike any other we have previously experienced. We are in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. The coronavirus is an infectious disease that is known to spread more rapidly and infect a larger portion of the population than the flu. With already limited resources and our healthcare workers stretched thin, the best way to protect ourselves and others during the months ahead is to take action to prevent the spread of these illnesses as well as be aware of their similar symptoms.

Influenza and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses. Although they are caused by different viruses, it is crucial to note the coronavirus and the flu share many common symptoms.

Shared Symptoms between COVID-19 and Influenza

• • Fever or feeling feverish/chills.
  • Cough.
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
  • Fatigue (tiredness)
  • Sore throat.
  • Runny or stuffy nose.
  • Muscle pain or body aches.
  • Headache.

Symptoms Generally Unique to COVID-19

• • Loss of smell (anosmia) or taste (ageusia).

Both the flu and COVID-19 can range in severity from mild to severe symptoms based on the individual affected but in some cases these illnesses can be fatal. It is also important to note that many individuals do not experience symptoms in the beginning and can therefore unknowingly spread the disease to others- a contributing factor to the high rate of spread. Ian Barr, deputy director of the World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Influenza in Melbourne, Australia states, “Two or three viruses infecting you are normally worse than one,” he says. He along with many health experts fear coinfection—people getting COVID-19 and flu at the same time. It will be difficult to differentiate between the coronavirus and the flu based on symptoms alone so it will be necessary to get tested.

Ways to Protect Yourself

One thing we do know is that both illnesses are spread by droplets when people with the illness cough, sneeze or talk. Currently the best way to protect yourself from the coronavirus is to abide by social distancing guidelines, wear a mask and wash your hands regularly. While these measures will also help decrease the spread of the flu, there is no way to be completely immune. The best way to protect yourself is to get a flu shot. Influenza vaccination rates across the United States have risen above 40% in 2013 and have continued to increase as people realize this is the best way to protect themselves and those around them.

Get Vaccinated

Although we are anxiously awaiting a vaccine for COVID-19, we can protect ourselves from influenza by getting a flu shot. Experts say this may be our most important flu shot yet. On August 25, 2020, Gov. Whitmer called a press conference to underscore preparations for this coming flu season and stated, “Preventing the flu will help us save lives and preserve the health care resources we need to continue fighting COVID-19.” Last year less only 45% of Americans received the flu shot. Many health officials are aiming to push vaccination rates up to 65% this year in hopes of decreasing the spread of COVID-19 and the flu.

To find where to receive the flu vaccine near you please visit: https://vaccinefinder.org/find-vaccine

For updates on the COVID-19 vaccine please see our blog post: Reopening America: COVID-19 Vaccine Update

The PharmaOut team remains committed to doing our part to fight COVID-19 and help keep our families safe. Our team of expert recruiters and consultants have years of experience to assist our clients in successfully continuing their business with our staffing, consulting, HR and investigator meeting services. Please contact us if you would like to discuss how PharmaOut can be your strategic partner.

Uncategorized