It may be hard to believe, but flu season begins in only a few short weeks. The season starts in late September and lasts through late spring, ending around Memorial Day. Because the COVID-19 pandemic is ongoing, it’s important to make sure you take certain steps to keep yourself safe during this flu season. The flu virus is highly contagious, with hundreds of thousands of cases reported each year as the virus makes its way through communities, including schools, dorms, offices and your own home. An extra way you can protect yourself against the virus is by getting a flu shot once it becomes available this fall. Take some time to learn about the differences between COVID-19 and the influenza virus!

Is there a difference between COVID-19 and influenza?

Yes. Both viruses are upper respiratory infections and share some similarities in symptoms, but that is where the resemblance ends. COVID-19 is caused specifically by the SARS-CoV-2 virus and has more lasting effects than the flu. The flu is caused by a series of mutating and evolving influenza viruses, which is why the flu shot is different each year. Diagnostic tests are available for both viruses to provide patients with an accurate diagnosis and inform care. 

Is it possible to have COVID-19 and the flu at once?

Yes, a patient is able to have COVID-19 at the same time as the flu. Doctors are currently unsure of how common this may be and are still conducting research. It is unknown what kind of side effects may occur when patients have both viruses at once. In order to determine which virus you may have, it is recommended that you set up a telemedicine appointment with a physician to go over your symptoms as well as how long ago they began and your activity in previous days. Telemedicine screenings at AFC Urgent Care South Portland can be done for routine visits as well as COVID-19 pre-screenings before testing. COVID-19 testing is done by appointment only after a telemedicine screening, while a rapid flu test can be done during a walk-in visit in our on-site lab. 

Will a flu shot provide protection against COVID-19?

While the flu shot will provide immunity against the expected common strain of the influenza virus, it will not provide immunity against COVID-19. What the flu shot will do is make it easier for a doctor to provide an accurate diagnosis during a sick visit or telemedicine appointment.

What is the best time for me to get a flu shot?

Depending on when your local urgent care gets their supply of flu vaccines, you should get your flu shot in late September to early October in order to have the shot be effective by the time the flu starts to spread through your community. The flu vaccine takes about two weeks to become effective and provide immunity against the virus, and getting the shot early reduces the chance of you being vulnerable when the virus reaches its peak. 

Walk-In Flu Shots for Patients in South Portland, Portland & Scarborough, ME

If you are interested in getting a flu shot, visit AFC Urgent Care South Portland this fall! Our center is open seven days a week, with convenient evening and weekend hours. For questions, please call 207.358.3188.