Flu vs. COVID-19: How they Compare/Differ

Last year, during the 2020–2021 flu season, the U.S. saw record low numbers of influenza illnesses. Earlier in October, Rochelle Walensky, MD, MPH, director of the CDC warned of a "potentially severe flu season this year." Knowing the similarities and differences between the viruses—including symptoms, causes, treatment options, and how they spread—is important. In this article, infectious disease experts weigh in on how the flu and COVID-19 compare and how they differ to help you take care of your health and protect others in your community.