Is It Possible to Get COVID-19 and the Flu at the Same Time?

Unfortunately, yes, it is.

Our AFC Urgent Care Powdersville team elaborates on why you can get these two viruses at the same time and what you can do to protect yourself below, so keep reading!

How Is It Possible to Get COVID-19 and the Flu at the Same Time?

Although both illnesses affect the respiratory system, they’re caused by different viruses. COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus and the flu is caused by the influenza virus.

To protect yourself from these viruses, your best bet is to get both the COVID-19 and the flu vaccine. You don’t have to get them both at the same time, but you can, according to the CDC. The vaccines won’t counteract each other and won’t cause serious side effects.

Reasons to Get Vaccinated This Winter

  • Vaccine-preventable viruses are still here. The viruses and bacteria that cause illness and death still exist and can be passed on to those who are not protected by vaccines.
  • Vaccines are safe. The U.S. has a robust approval process to ensure that all licensed vaccines are safe. Potential side effects associated with vaccines are uncommon and much less severe than the diseases they prevent.
  • Vaccines will not cause the diseases they are designed to prevent. Vaccines contain either killed or weakened viruses, making it impossible to get the disease from the vaccine. The COVID-19 vaccine doesn’t contain any of the virus, though.
  • When you get sick with a virus, it endangers those around you.

Do I Still Need to Get the COVID-19 Vaccine If I’ve Already Had COVID-19?

Yes, you should. Even if you’ve already had it in the past, research shows that those who are fully vaccinated are better protected than those who have previously had the virus.

Not only is getting vaccinated important for your own personal health, but it lowers your risk of transmitting the virus to others. In addition to getting your vaccine, we’ve listed some ways you can stay healthy as winter approaches.

How to Prevent Flu and COVID-19 This Winter

  • Wash your hands thoroughly and often.
  • Wear a mask in public spaces.
  • Stay at home and away from others when you are sick to prevent catching and transmitting illness and potential virus.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly and often.
  • Avoid touching your nose, face or mouth unless your hands are clean.

When you feel under the weather, our AFC team is here for you! Don’t hesitate to stop by or reach out today.