Livingston Releases Information: Is It COVID-19 Or The Flu?

Press release from the Livingston Township:

December 8 2020

As colder months approach, influenza viruses begin to spread more widely. This year, COVID-19 is also spreading rapidly – but it’s important to remember that the flu and COVID-19 are caused by two different viruses.

COVID-19 and the flu are both respiratory illnesses that can cause similar symptoms, such as fever, body aches, fatigue, runny nose, and sore throat. However, a loss of taste and/or smell is a symptom unique to COVID-19 and not generally a symptom of the flu. If you are experiencing any symptoms, contact your health care provider, who can provide testing to determine what is causing your symptoms.

Both COVID-19 and influenza can be spread through respiratory droplets – particularly if a person is within 6 feet of someone who is infected with the virus or by touching a surface that contains the virus. People who were exposed to influenza are likely to show symptoms within 1-4 days of being exposed, but it can take up to 14 days for symptoms to appear in those who are exposed to COVID-19. This makes it critical to complete the full quarantine period if exposed to someone with COVID-19 in order to limit the spread of the virus.

There are effective measures that can be taken to prevent getting either COVID-19 or the flu:

• Wash hands frequently with soap and water, being sure to scrub them for at least 20 seconds
• Use an alcohol-based (at least 60% alcohol) hand sanitizer to clean your hands if no soap and water is available
• Avoid touching your mouth, nose, and eyes
• Limit your contact with others
• Clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces
• Wear a face mask when around others
• Maintain at least 6 feet of social distancing from others

A vaccine that can protect against COVID-19 is not yet available, but getting a flu vaccine can help protect you against the flu. While there are some individuals who may get the flu vaccine yet still get the flu, they will most likely have only a milder case and will have a lower chance of experiencing complications from the flu due to the protection the vaccine provides.

The Livingston Health Department reminds residents that it’s not too late to get a flu shot. Along with following the basic effective measures for avoiding illness, getting the flu vaccination can offer significant health protection.

This press release was produced by the Livingston Township>. The views expressed here are the author’s own.