What are the differences between flu and Covid-19 symptoms?

The Spanish Ministry of Health has released a question and answer (Q&A) document for the population in order to clarify all doubts that may arise about the flu, as well as to reject false myths.

Among the issues addressed, the section on issues related to flu and Covid-19 vaccination stands out.

For example, the differences between the symptoms of both diseases are explained.

According to the document of the health authorities, the coronavirus and the influenza virus have very similar clinical presentations. Both share routes of transmission and cause respiratory diseases, with a wide variety of symptoms, which can range from asymptomatic infections or with mild symptoms, to serious illness and death.

In the case of Covid-19, the proportion of patients with severe symptoms requiring oxygen is 15%. Another 5% are critical infections that require ventilation.

These percentages of severe infection appear higher than those observed in the case of influenza infection.

Headache, fatigue

"Fever, cough, and loss of smell / taste are common symptoms in flu and Covid-19, but fatigue, sore throat, headache, and muscle pain seem to occur less frequently in Covid-19 than in the flu," says the government document.

Respiratory distress also appears to be more prevalent in Covid-19.

The aforementioned document stresses that, since the symptoms of flu, Covid-19 and other catarrhal conditions are similar, it is important to consult with a health professional and follow their advice.

Regarding the false myths, the document emphasizes that there is no evidence that shows that there is a greater risk of being infected by coronavirus or of suffering Covid-19 of greater severity due to having received a flu vaccine.