As the year 2022 comes to an end, COVID-19, unfortunately still lingers. We are seeing COVID actually overlap with flu season. The symptoms of COVID and the flu can be difficult to differentiate. That is why testing at your local Long Beach urgent care is the most effective way to distinguish between the flu and COVID.

The Symptoms of Both COVID and the Flu

Here are some of the signs and symptoms that are seen in both the flu and COVID patients:

• Coughing
• Difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Headaches
• Body aches

December to February is known as the window of time for flu season, and we have seen it overlap with COVID. That is why experts recommend getting tested for both the flu and COVID at around the same time.

Just because COVID and the flu have similar symptoms does not mean that they are one and the same. Let’s dive into the differences.

The flu also referred to in the medical community as influenza, is a respiratory infection that can either go away on its own or develop into a much more severe condition. Usually, the flu is more likely to cause issues such as diarrhea and vomiting than COVID. 

On the other hand, COVID-19 is the result of the coronavirus or SARS-CoV-2. Many COVID patients experience a sudden loss of taste or smell. People who are older in age and have severe underlying health conditions like heart disease, lung disease, or diabetes are at high risk for developing more serious complications from COVID.

You can protect yourself from both the flu and COVID by getting vaccinated. If you are worried that you may have been exposed to COVID, there are Long Beach testing sites that you can visit and get rapid results.

Do You Have Allergies?

December to February is also allergy season for many people. Allergies are not the result of pathogens, though. Here are some of the symptoms of common allergies:

• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Itchy or red eyes
• Runny nose

Severe allergies like allergic asthma can appear to be very similar to cold, flu, or even COVID symptoms. Getting a test is the most reliable and effective way to find an immediate answer and avoid mistreatment. Consider getting a COVID PCR test at urgent care in Long Beach.  If you are not feeling well, be sure to get plenty of rest, eat hot soup, drink tea, or even take a warm bath.

Ideal Time to Test for COVID

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of COVID-19, you should find urgent care in Long Beach, CA, and get tested. Make sure to wait at least five days after your exposure to COVID before getting tested; otherwise, you could get the wrong result if you test too early.

Protect Yourself from Infections

While it can be difficult to completely avoid exposure to COVID and other illnesses, there are some simple ways to lower your risk of infection:

• Get vaccinated, and make sure to get your booster shots in a timely manner.
• Wear a mask if you are in a very crowded area.
• Wash or sanitize your hands.
• Stay at home if you are feeling sick.
• Get a good night’s sleep (about seven, ideally eight hours of sleep).
• Eat healthily.
• Exercise routinely.

It’s always important to prioritize your health. If you are concerned that you have contracted COVID or any other kind of infection, seek help from Long Beach urgent care.

What are other things you need to know about COVID-19? Find out here: https://www.gnhealth.com/what-are-the-things-that-centers-for-palliative-care-taught-us-during-the-covid-19-pandemic/