In order to meet the needs of our community during COVID-19, Sona is offering a curbside flu clinic now through October.
Book your curbside or in-store flu shot with the link below!
ONLINE FLU FORM
As summer comes to an end and we begin to count down the days until Summer 2021, we start our approach to the dreaded cold and flu season. While we don’t know exactly how different this cold and flu season will be in these COVID times, we should still be just as vigilant with how serious we treat cold and flu season.
It is recommended that everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine unless it is not recommended due to severe allergic reaction or a previous adverse reaction to a vaccine. It is important to protect ourselves and others by washing hands, wearing a mask, and getting a flu vaccine.
What is similar between the flu, a cold, and coronavirus?
- – The common cold is a general term for multiple respiratory viruses that can cause similar symptoms.
- – The flu is also caused by a variety of influenza viruses, but we can try and protect against it with the annual flu vaccine.
- – Coronavirus is caused by the novel SARS-CoV-2 virus.
- All of these respiratory infections are caused by viruses, meaning antibiotics, which are used to treat bacterial infections, will not help to cure them.
What is the difference between the flu, a cold, and coronavirus?
It can be difficult to tell the difference between the flu, a cold, and coronavirus. Some people have mild symptoms, others have very severe symptoms, while others can remain asymptomatic (showing no symptoms at all). Before getting tested for the flu or coronavirus, it is important to know what your symptoms are.
How do I know if I have the flu or a cold or coronavirus?
The symptoms that may occur if you have a cold, the flu, or coronavirus may vary. There are some similarities and differences between the three. Below is a comparison chart of how common the symptoms are and if they are typically associated with each of the viruses.
*Disclaimer: we are learning more about coronavirus each and every day. This list of symptoms is subject to change as more data comes out.
How can I stay as healthy as possible?
The best way to avoid getting the flu and coronavirus is to stay home and minimize your exposure to public places. If you do leave your home, wash your hands thoroughly and frequently and avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Keep up the social distancing by staying 6 feet or more away from others, too.
Also, make sure you get your flu shot this year. The CDC recommends the best time to get your flu shot is as early as September and October to provide protection throughout the flu season. It will provide immunity 14 days after you get it and give you the best fighting chance of not getting the flu.
Stop by Sona Pharmacy today to get your 2020-2021 flu shot or ask our pharmacists if you have any questions about the differences between a cold, the flu, and coronavirus. We are here to help!
References:
https://www.cityofhope.org/breakthroughs/how-to-tell-difference-if-covid-19-the-flu-or-a-cold
https://sonapharmacy.com/myths-vs-facts-flu-vaccines/
https://sonapharmacy.com/cold-vs-flu-which-is-it/
https://healthcare.utah.edu/healthfeed/postings/2020/07/flu-coronavirus.php
