COVID-19 stands for coronavirus disease 2019. COVID-19 is a respiratory disease caused by a type of coronavirus discovered in 2019 called SARS-CoV-2.

As of now, researchers know that the coronavirus is spread through droplets and virus particles released into the air when an infected person breathes, talks, laughs, sings, coughs, or sneezes. Larger droplets may fall to the ground in a few seconds, but tiny infectious particles can linger in the air and accumulate in indoor places, especially where many people are gathered and there is poor ventilation. This is why wearing a mask is so important.

Symptoms may be different for each person and show up 2-14 days after exposure to the virus.

Common COVID-19 symptoms include the following:
-Cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing
-Fever or chills
-Muscle or body aches
-Vomiting or diarrhea
-New loss of taste or smell

Learn more about symptoms on CDC or using the HealthyMKE Symtom Checker.

You can find out if you are sick with COVID-19 through a laboratory test or an at-home test. Find testing locations on HealthyMKE’s COVID-19 test finder.

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It can cause mild to severe sickness and can lead to death.

• Fever or feeling feverish/chills*

• Cough

• Sore throat

• Runny/stuffy Nose

• Muscle/body aches

• Headaches

• Fatigue (Tiredness)

Flu symptoms usually come on suddenly!

*Not everyone with flu will have a fever

Flu is a contagious respiratory illness. When people with flu cough or sneeze, you can inhale droplets that contain flu viruses.

Watch this video for more.

• The most effective way to prevent the flu is to get a flu vaccine each year in September or October. The flu vaccine reduces flu-related sickness and the risk of serious flu symptoms that can cause hospitalization or even death. Learn more about the flu vaccine here.

• Wear a mask if you feel sick or during flu season (September - May).

• When indoors, avoid crowded places and try to bring in fresh air by opening windows and doors.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds

It is hard to know the difference between the flu and other viral or bacterial sickness from symptoms alone. There are flu tests available. If you begin to feel sick with flu-like symptoms, the first step is to contact your primary care provider to schedule an appointment.

Do you need a primary care provider? Click here.

• Stay home except to get medical care.

• Get rest and stay hydrated.

• If you must leave your home, wear a mask.

• Stay in touch with your primary care provider to monitor symptoms and find out about treatments available to you (both over-the-counter and prescribed medications).