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COVID-19 and the Flu

Know the symptoms of both; and get your flu shot

Veteran receiving a flu shot at VADuring the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s flu season has greater risks than previous ones. You may have heard that flu and COVID-19 share many symptoms, including fever, chills, cough, sore throat, and congestion. So how do you tell the difference?

Signs of COVID-19 can take as long as 14 days to show up, while flu symptoms may show up within 1 to 4 days. Keep in mind that COVID-19 can spread more quickly because you’re contagious for a longer period than the flu.

Getting your annual flu shot and getting tested for COVID-19 are the easiest ways to stay healthy. These small steps can help reduce the demand for health care resources as facilities are stressed by the number of COVID-19 patients they are treating.

COVID-19 Reminders:

  • Always wear a mask when you’re around others

  • Stay home if you feel sick.

  • If you start to feel sick, call your doctor for instructions. You can be diagnosed with COVID-19 over the phone.

  • If you have trouble breathing or have pain or pressure in the chest, seek emergency medical care immediately.


Please vote in our unscientific poll. All responses are anonymous.

COVID-19 and the Flu Poll

Read More

Flu Shots for Veterans in the Community (VA)

Coronavirus FAQs (VA)

Coronavirus (COVID-19) (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)


Updated December 15, 2020