August 14, 2020
COVID-19 may be the contagious illness that is top of mind as we head into fall, but health experts say you still must get your flu shot.
Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and sometimes the lungs. Symptoms range from mild to severe and can lead to death. The best way to prevent flu is by getting a flu vaccine annually.
Flu activity typically begins in late October to early November and lasts until the end of spring or late May. The height of flu season is usually between December and February.
Dana Hawkinson, MD, medical director of infection prevention and control at The University of Kansas Health System, says it’s critical that everyone 6 months of age and older get an annual flu vaccine.
"Talk with your healthcare provider, but do not miss an opportunity to receive flu vaccination when it becomes available," says Dr. Hawkinson.
Dr. Hawkinson says many of the steps we take to protect ourselves from contracting the deadly coronavirus will also help during flu season. COVID-19 has caused more than 170,000 deaths in the United States since March.
"Wearing a mask, washing your hands frequently and keeping your distance from others – those measures will help protect us from influenza as well," he says.
Both COVID-19 and flu can have varying signs and symptoms, ranging from no symptoms to severe symptoms. Common symptoms that COVID-19 and flu share include:
- 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
Both COVID-19 and flu can spread among people who are in close contact with one another and both are spread primarily by droplets made when people with the illness cough, sneeze or talk. The droplets can land in the mouths, noses or eyes of people nearby or be inhaled into the lungs.
Talk with your healthcare provider, but do not miss an opportunity to receive flu vaccination when it becomes available. ‒ Dana Hawkinson, MD
Medical director, infection prevention and control
Differences between the flu and COVID-19
Flu usually comes on suddenly, anywhere from 1 to 4 days after infection, while COVID-19 symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, someone exposed to COVID-19 typically develops symptoms 5 days after being infected, but that time span can vary.
Another symptom of COVID-19 that distinguishes it from the flu is a change in or loss of taste or smell that often occurs. Temporary loss of smell and taste has been tied to COVID-19 infection.
The CDC wants to ensure you take steps to care for yourself by getting a flu shot and understanding the difference between COVID-19 and the flu.
Make an appointment to receive your flu shot. Call your provider’s office or 913-588-1227 to schedule.