NPCWoods
What Are COVID and Flu?
COVID-19 and influenza are both respiratory viral infections—they can feel very similar, but they're caused by different viruses. COVID is caused by SARS-CoV-2, and the flu by influenza viruses. Both attack your respiratory system and can range from mild to severe.
Symptoms—What to Watch For
COVID and flu share many overlapping symptoms. Some are specific to one or the other, but the safest approach is to test if you suspect either one.
Fever or Chills
Often one of the first signs. Most people run 100.4°F or higher.
Cough
Usually dry. With flu, it's often more intense. COVID cough is typically persistent.
Body Aches
Muscles and joints often hurt. Flu aches are usually more severe.
Fatigue
Extreme tiredness. Rest is essential—your body is fighting hard.
Headache
Often comes alongside fever. Can be mild to severe.
Sore Throat
Can range from mild scratchy feeling to painful swallowing.
Runny Nose or Congestion
More common with COVID. Flu tends to spare the nose.
Loss of Taste or Smell
Very specific to COVID. If you notice this, that's a strong COVID signal.
Shortness of Breath
This is a red flag. Don't ignore it. Seek care immediately.
Medications That Help
If you test positive for COVID or flu, antiviral medications can make a real difference. They work best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset—ideally sooner.
Oseltamivir (Tamiflu)
Flu antiviral medication
Paxlovid (Nirmatrelvir/Ritonavir)
COVID antiviral medication
Ondansetron (Zofran)
Symptom management—for nausea
Red Flags—Go to ER
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath at rest
- Persistent chest pain or pressure
- Confusion or altered mental state
- Inability to stay awake or unresponsiveness
- Bluish lips, face, or fingernails
- Severe dehydration (no urine in 8+ hours, extreme dizziness)
- Symptoms improving then suddenly worsening (possible secondary bacterial infection)
- Oxygen saturation below 94% if you have a pulse oximeter
Taking Care of Yourself at Home
Most COVID and flu cases are managed at home. Here's what actually helps:
Rest—Seriously, Rest
Your body is fighting a virus. Sleep and rest accelerate recovery. Take at least 1-2 days completely off work or activities.
Hydration
Drink water, herbal tea, broth, or electrolyte drinks. Aim for at least 2-3 liters per day. Dehydration makes everything worse.
OTC Fever and Pain Reducers
Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can help with fever, aches, and headache. Follow package directions.
Monitor Oxygen (If You Have a Pulse Ox)
Normal is 95-100%. Below 94% is a reason to reach out to us or seek care. Check a few times a day if you're high-risk.
Isolate from Others
Stay in your own room if possible. Use a separate bathroom. You're most contagious in the first 5 days.
Ventilate Your Space
Open windows if weather permits. Fresh air helps, and it reduces viral load in your immediate area.
Sleep Position
If you're comfortable, sleep on your stomach or side (not flat on your back). This can help with breathing and comfort.
ER vs. Text NPCWoods: A Quick Guide
Knowing when to head to the ER versus texting us for guidance saves time and money.
Go to the ER If:
- You can't breathe normally
- Chest pain or pressure
- Confusion or difficulty thinking
- You can't stay awake
- Blue lips or face
- Severe dehydration
- Oxygen below 94%
Text Us If:
- You think you have COVID or flu
- You tested positive (urgent)
- Fever won't come down
- Severe cough or congestion
- Body aches aren't improving
- Nausea or vomiting
- You're unsure if you need the ER
Frequently Asked Questions
COVID and flu share many symptoms, so the best way to know is with a test—a rapid antigen or PCR test for COVID, or a rapid flu test. Flu tends to come on suddenly with intense body aches. Loss of taste or smell points strongly to COVID. The key is that both need the same approach: antivirals within 48 hours. If you're showing strong respiratory symptoms, test or call us immediately.
Antivirals make a significant difference—they reduce severity, shorten illness duration, and lower the risk of serious complications like pneumonia or hospitalization. That said, they work best within the first 48 hours of symptoms. If you're young and healthy with mild symptoms, your body might handle it on its own. But why take that risk? Text us immediately if you test positive or have strong symptoms. Don't wait to see if you get worse.
For COVID, you're typically contagious for about 5-7 days after symptoms start, and up to 10 days in some cases. For flu, contagiousness usually lasts 5-7 days. You're most contagious in the first 3-5 days. Isolate from others especially during that window—separate room, separate bathroom, don't share eating utensils or pillows.
If you're well enough to go out (especially masked) without spreading illness, the CDC guideline is 5 days after symptom onset if your symptoms are improving and you're fever-free without fever-reducing medication. But honestly? Rest the first day or two. Your body needs it to fight this off faster. Many people feel ready to return around day 3-5 if symptoms are mild. When in doubt, err on the side of caution—and definitely wear a mask for a few days after returning.
Go to the ER if you have trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, inability to stay awake, bluish lips/face, or severe dehydration. Text us (480-639-4722) or call for anything else—we can assess you, check oxygen levels if needed, and get you antivirals quickly. Most cases are very manageable at home with the right support and medications. We're here for exactly this situation.
Related Conditions
COVID and flu can lead to secondary infections. If symptoms linger or worsen after initial recovery, reach out:
Bronchitis
Inflammation of airways. Lingering cough after COVID/flu recovery? This could be it.
Sinus Infection
Secondary bacterial sinus infection after viral illness. Thick nasal discharge, sinus pressure.
Bacterial Pneumonia
A red-flag complication. Worsening shortness of breath days into recovery warrants urgent evaluation.
Questions? We're Here 24/7
Text us at the first sign of symptoms. Antivirals work best when started early, and we can get you treated the same day.
Text (480) 639-4722