What are some of the similarities between COVID-19 and flu?

Similarities:

Both COVID-19 and flu can spread from person-to-person between people who are in close contact with one another (within about 6 feet). Both are spread mainly by large and small particles containing virus that are expelled when people with the illness (COVID-19 or flu) cough, sneeze, or talk.

Are influenza (flu) and COVID-19 caused by the same virus?

Influenza (flu) and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. COVID-19 is caused by infection with a coronavirus first identified in 2019, and flu is caused by infection with influenza viruses.

Will the flu vaccine protect me against COVID-19?

No. Flu vaccines do not protect against COVID-19. Flu vaccination reduces the risk of flu illness, hospitalization and death in addition to other important benefits.

Can you get COVID-19 and the flu at the same time?

Yes. It is possible have flu, as well as other respiratory illnesses, and COVID-19 at the same time. Health experts are still studying how common this can be. Some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar, making it hard to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone.

What is the name of the virus that causes COVID-19?

COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) is a disease caused by a virus named SARS-CoV-2 and was discovered in December 2019 in Wuhan, China.

What is the origin of the virus that causes COVID-19?

SARS-CoV originated in bats and was transmitted to humans via civet cats [3] while MERS originated in camels [4]. While it is currently unknown the precise route by which SARS-CoV-2 is transmitted from animals to humans, it is argued to have a bat origin [1,5].

Can you get a COVID-19 booster and a flu shot at the same time?

The preprint study, which is not yet peer-reviewed, found that when people received flu and COVID-19 vaccines at the same time, it caused no health or safety concerns. The study also found that administering both vaccines at the same time didn’t diminish the body’s immune response to either virus.

How long does it take for COVID-19 symptoms to start showing?

People with COVID-19 have reported a wide range of symptoms – from mild symptoms to severe illness. Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. If you have fever, cough, or other symptoms, you might have COVID-19.

How long after the COVID-19 booster might side effects start?

You probably experienced COVID-19 vaccine side effects fairly quickly when you had your initial injections. The same is true for COVID-19 vaccine booster shots: Most people notice side effects within the first 24 hours. The symptoms typically only last a day or two. Some people don’t notice any side effects.

Can the COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccines be given simultaneously?

COVID-19 vaccines may be administered without regard to timing of other vaccines. This includes simultaneous administration of COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccines on the same day.

How long do I need to wait after getting a flu vaccine or another vaccine before getting a COVID-19 vaccine?

You can get a COVID-19 vaccine and other vaccines, including a flu vaccine, at the same visit. Experience with other vaccines has shown that the way our bodies develop protection, known as an immune response, and possible side effects after getting vaccinated are generally the same when given alone or with other vaccines. Learn more about the timing of other vaccines.

When should you get a COVID-19 booster shot?

Pereira: A booster shot is now recommended for anyone over the age of 18 who finished their mRNA series [Pfizer or Moderna] at least six months ago or received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least two months ago. By changing the eligibility criteria, the guidance is now less confusing.

What medications should be avoided before the COVID-19 vaccine?

It is not recommended you take over-the-counter medicine – such as ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen – before vaccination for the purpose of trying to prevent vaccine-related side effects.

What happens if you take Tylenol before the COVID-19 vaccine?

Studies have shown that Tylenol (acetaminophen) and NSAIDs might have some effect on how the immune system works, but we don’t know if this would cause COVID-19 vaccines to be less effective. To be extra cautious, it’s best to avoid taking OTC pain relievers before you get your shot.

Can I take ibuprofen after the COVID-19 vaccine?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends people talk to their doctors about taking over-the-counter medicines like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, aspirin, or antihistamines, for any pain and discomfort after getting vaccinated.

What are some medications that are safe to take with the COVID-19 vaccine?

Taking one of the following medications is not, on its own, a reason to avoid getting your COVID-19 vaccination:

• Over-the-counter medications (non-prescription)
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (naproxen, ibuprofen, aspirin, etc.)
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol, etc.)

Is it safe to take Tylenol or Ibuprofen before a COVID-19 vaccine?

Because of the lack of high-quality studies on taking NSAIDs or Tylenol before getting a vaccine, the CDC and other similar health organizations recommend not taking Advil or Tylenol beforehand.

Is it safe to take aspirin while receiving the COVID-19 vaccine?

Since there’s no concrete evidence one way or the other on whether OTC pain relievers make the COVID-19 vaccines less effective, it could actually be much riskier for you to stop any regular medications. Stopping a daily low-dose aspirin can raise your risk of heart problems or blood clots.

Should you avoid pain relievers before getting the COVID-19 vaccine?

Because of this uncertainty, both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommend avoiding pain relievers and fever reducers before getting any vaccine.

Do I need to discontinue my medications after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine?

For most people, it is not recommended to avoid, discontinue, or delay medications that you are routinely taking for prevention or treatment of other medical conditions around the time of COVID-19 vaccination.

Can I take Advil before COVID-19 vaccine?

The bottom line Because there’s a possibility that OTC pain relievers, such as Tylenol or Advil, might weaken your immune system’s response to vaccines, it’s best not to take them before you get your shot. But feel free to take Tylenol or Advil after the COVID-19 vaccine if you need it.