Seasonal Flu and COVID-19: What to know about both

Yes, people can be infected with both flu and the virus that causes COVID-19 at the same time and have symptoms of both influenza and COVID-19.

Both COVID-19 and flu can have varying degrees of signs and symptoms, ranging from no symptoms (asymptomatic) to severe symptoms. Common symptoms that COVID-19 and flu share include:

• Fever or feeling feverish/having chills

• Cough

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

• Fatigue (tiredness)

• Sore throat

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Muscle pain or body aches

• Headache

• Vomiting and diarrhea

• Change in or loss of taste or smell, although this is more frequent with COVID-19.

Because some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar, it may be hard to tell the difference based on symptoms alone and testing may be needed to help confirm a diagnosis.

Yes, the CDC has said that both vaccines can be given on the same day but should be given in different arms.

No, the flu shot won't protect you from developing COVID-19 but it's more important than ever this year. Most people older than six months can and should get the flu vaccine. Doing so reduces the chances of getting seasonal flu.

No, the three available COVID-19 vaccines are designed to protect against serious illness from COVID-19. A separate flu vaccine is needed to protect against the seasonal flu.

The timing of flu is difficult to predict and can vary in different parts of the country and from season to season. We are expecting an earlier and more severe flu season due to the community resuming in-person activities.

For more information about COVID-19 and the flu, visit the Centers for Disease Control.