29 May 2025 (Punjab Khabarnama Bureau): Covid cases are rapidly increasing in India.The number of active Covid cases in the country has crossed 1,200. In the last few days, 12 people have died due to Covid infections. According to health experts, not only Covid but flu cases have also been rising significantly during these days. Some symptoms of Covid and flu are similar, which makes it difficult to distinguish between them. However, many symptoms of Covid are different from the flu, and if those appear, one should get tested for Covid. Any kind of negligence can be dangerous.
Dr. Sonia Rawat, Director of the Preventive Health and Wellness Department at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi, told News18 that both Covid and flu are viral infections. When people have Covid or flu, they experience symptoms like fever, cough, body aches, fatigue, and sore throat. These symptoms are similar in both infections. This is why sometimes it becomes difficult for a patient to understand whether they have flu or Covid infection. However, there are some clear differences between the two infections, which are important to understand. Based on these, you can identify whether it is Covid or flu.
Dr. Sonia Rawat explained that many people suddenly lose their sense of taste and smell when infected with Covid. They do not perceive any taste in food or any smell, which is usually not the case with the flu. Additionally, people with Covid infection often experience difficulty breathing, whereas breathing difficulty is rare with the flu. If you start feeling shortness of breath or heaviness in your chest, it could be a sign of Covid.
Health experts also say that the effects of Covid infection can last for a long time. In cases of long Covid, even after recovery, patients may experience fatigue, weakness, and mental confusion for several months. On the other hand, flu usually resolves within 7 to 10 days, and its effects do not last as long. If you suspect that you might be infected with flu or Covid, the best way is to get an RT-PCR or Rapid Antigen Test done. There are different tests for Covid and flu.
According to Dr. Rawat, Covid is a serious infection and should be taken seriously. If you have fever, cough, body aches, or difficulty breathing, you should consult a doctor as soon as possible, get tested, and receive proper treatment. Pregnant women, children, elderly people, and those already suffering from serious illnesses should take extra precautions, as they are at higher risk of Covid infection.
To prevent Covid, wear a mask when going outside, maintain social distancing, and wash your hands frequently with soap or sanitize them regularly. Also, avoid crowded places and contact a doctor if you have any health issues.
Summary:
Learn five simple signs to distinguish COVID-19 from flu: loss of smell, symptom onset, fever pattern, breathing issues, and fatigue duration for clearer diagnosis.