10/13/2020- As we head into the colder months, this year those body aches, fever, and other symptoms will likely have you wondering, “Is this the flu or COVID?” and medical professionals say, the only way to know for certain is to get tested. Jennifer Kuhn, Infection Prevention Specialist with Bellin Health says influenza and COVID-19 present with very similar symptoms, with prominent differences being difficulty breathing or a loss of taste or smell in those with the coronavirus. When in doubt, she recommends getting in touch with your healthcare provider to discuss being screened for either illness.

And, as if contracting COVID-19 or influenza independently wasn’t bad enough, Kuhn says it’s entirely possible to have both at the same time. That’s why it’s especially important this year to get a flu vaccine.

The flu shot is already available for the season at healthcare clinics, hospitals, and pharmacies. It’s recommended for anyone over the age of 6 months and particularly for older adults, those with underlying health conditions, and pregnant women.