By now, you probably know that COVID-19 and the flu share similar symptoms. Because of this, it can be difficult to know which virus you have when you begin to feel under the weather.

Deciphering between viruses is much more difficult during this time of year, as flu season is now underway. Our AFC Urgent Care Memphis team is here assist you in learning how to tell the difference between COVID-19 and the flu, so keep reading!

How Can I Know If I Have COVID-19?

The best way to know whether you have COVID-19 is by getting a COVID-19 test when you start to experience symptoms. If you choose not to get tested, though, experts say that one of the most telling signs of COVID-19 is a new loss of taste or smell and difficulty breathing.

If you experience these symptoms, including some of the ones we’ve listed below, we strongly encourage you to schedule a COVID-19 test at our AFC center.

Other Symptoms of COVID-19

• Cough
• Body aches
• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fever or chills
• Headaches

How Do I Know If I Have the Flu?

Even with the flu, the best way to know whether you have it is by getting tested. Because COVID-19 is still taking priority right now, it’s important to get tested for that before getting tested for the flu. If you test negative for COVID-19, you likely have the flu.

Another tell-tale sign of the flu is that flu symptoms generally on come on much stronger and much more suddenly than COVID-19 symptoms. We’ve listed some more common symptoms of the flu below.

Common Flu Symptoms

• Joint and muscle aches
• Pain and tiredness around the eyes
• Weakness or extreme fatigue
• Warm, flushed skin and red, watery eyes
• Frequent headaches
• Fever

Remember, AFC Urgent Care Memphis is here for you! Don’t hesitate to stop by today if you feel under the weather.