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Flu vs COVID-19: How to Tell the Difference This Fall

Flu vs COVID-19: How to Tell the Difference This Fall As the cool winds of fall approach, so does the annual spike in respiratory illnesses.

August 20, 2025
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Flu vs COVID-19: How to Tell the Difference This Fall

As the cool winds of fall approach, so does the annual spike in respiratory illnesses. Flu season is just around the corner, but this year, it’s not the only illness on everyone’s radar. With COVID-19 still circulating, the challenge of distinguishing between the flu and COVID-19 symptoms is becoming a pressing concern for Canadians. This fall, it’s more important than ever to understand the differences between these two illnesses and know how to react.

Symptoms: Flu vs COVID-19 – What to Watch For

It’s easy to confuse the flu and COVID-19 because they share many symptoms. However, understanding the subtle differences can help you determine what you may be dealing with. Both illnesses primarily affect the respiratory system, but there are a few key signs to watch for that can help you differentiate between them.

Shared Symptoms:
  • Fever: A high fever is common in both illnesses, though it can be slightly more prolonged in COVID-19 cases.
  • Cough: Both can cause a dry or productive cough, but a COVID-19 cough is often more severe and persistent.
  • Fatigue: Extreme tiredness can be a hallmark of both illnesses, but fatigue tends to last longer and be more intense in COVID-19.
  • Body Aches: Muscle and joint pain can occur with both, but they tend to be more pronounced in flu cases.
  • Sore Throat: This symptom can appear early on with both viruses.
  • Headaches: Headaches are common, though they might be more frequent in flu cases.
  • Congestion or Runny Nose: While typical for both, nasal symptoms are more common in flu cases, especially among younger children.
    • COVID-19-Specific Symptoms:
  • Loss of Taste or Smell: One of the most recognizable and unique symptoms of COVID-19, though it’s less prevalent with newer variants, it still remains a key differentiator.
  • Shortness of Breath: This is a red flag for COVID-19, particularly if it worsens over time. It’s rare in flu cases unless there are underlying conditions.
  • Sudden Nausea, Vomiting, or Diarrhea: While both viruses can affect the digestive system, these symptoms are more commonly linked to COVID-19, especially in adults.
    • Timing and Onset:
  • Flu: The flu often has a rapid onset of symptoms. One day you’re feeling fine, and the next you may suddenly experience fever, chills, and body aches.
  • COVID-19: Symptoms of COVID-19 tend to develop gradually, starting with fatigue or a slight cough, and intensifying over the next few days. The slower onset can make it more difficult to immediately recognize the virus compared to the flu.

    • Why It’s Important to Know the Difference

    Knowing whether you’re dealing with the flu or COVID-19 is crucial not just for your own health, but for the safety of those around you. COVID-19 still carries the risk of spreading quickly within communities, particularly to those who are vulnerable or unvaccinated.

    Here’s why telling the difference matters:

  • Treatment Plans: COVID-19 requires isolation, while the flu can be managed with rest and over-the-counter medication, provided no severe symptoms arise.
  • Reducing Spread: Understanding which virus you have can help prevent spreading it to your family, friends, and colleagues.

    • Avoiding

  • Overburdening Healthcare Systems: Early detection and appropriate care can help reduce the strain on hospitals and clinics already dealing with the pressures of flu season and lingering COVID-19 cases.

    • How Family Doctors Can Help You Navigate This

    When it comes to managing flu or COVID-19 symptoms, having access to a family doctor can make all the difference. A family physician is your first line of defense, providing personalized care based on your unique health history and risk factors. They can help you:

  • Evaluate Your Symptoms: A family doctor can quickly assess whether your symptoms are more likely due to the flu, COVID-19, or something else entirely.
  • Guide Testing Decisions: Unsure whether you need a COVID-19 test or flu swab? Your doctor can recommend the right steps to take based on the latest medical guidelines and your personal risk factors.
  • Prescribe Treatments: For more severe cases, family doctors can prescribe antiviral medications or other treatments to help manage symptoms and prevent complications, especially for high-risk individuals such as seniors or those with chronic health conditions.
  • Monitor Long-Term Symptoms: Whether it’s COVID-19’s lingering effects or post-flu fatigue, family doctors can help manage recovery, ensuring you get the right care when it matters most.

    • However, many Canadians struggle with long wait times to find a family doctor, leaving them without essential support in moments like these. That’s why Medimap created the Family Doctor Alert List. By signing up, you’ll be notified when a family doctor in your area becomes available, significantly reducing the wait time compared to government-run services.

    No Family Doctor? Walk-In Clinics and Pharmacies to the Rescue

    If you don’t have a family doctor, don’t worry—walk-in clinics and pharmacies can be your lifeline when it comes to managing flu or COVID-19 symptoms. These healthcare providers offer essential services like:

  • Flu Shots on Demand: Many pharmacies now provide flu vaccines without the need for an appointment, making it convenient to protect yourself this season.
  • COVID-19 Testing: Walk-in clinics can offer diagnostic testing, ensuring you know exactly what you’re dealing with—whether it’s COVID-19 or the flu.
  • Immediate Care for Minor Illnesses: Both walk-in clinics and pharmacies can assist in managing minor symptoms, preventing your condition from worsening and offering early treatment options.

    • To simplify the process, Medimap can help you locate nearby clinics and pharmacies offering flu shots, COVID-19 tests, and other health services. This can save you time, reduce unnecessary ER visits, and ensure you get the help you need—fast. Whether you’re looking for a flu vaccine or quick access to medical advice, Medimap connects you with the care you need, when you need it.

    Take Control of Your Health This Flu Season

    As we head into the colder months, the lines between flu and COVID-19 symptoms can easily blur. The key is to stay informed, seek help early, and ensure you have the right healthcare support in place. Whether through your family doctor or walk-in clinics, don’t wait until symptoms spiral out of control.

    Sign up for Medimap’s Family Doctor Alert List today and take control of your healthcare before it’s too late. From flu shots to COVID-19 guidance, having a reliable healthcare provider makes all the difference.

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