Havenly Care Solutions

Influenza (Flu) and Covid are both respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses.

Influenza is caused by the flu virus that has been around for decades, while Covid is caused by the coronavirus ( SAR- CoV-2) which was first discovered in 2019.

Studies show that Covid 19 spreads more easily than the flu, may cause more severe illness, especially in seniors, and may have a longer recovery period.

These two illnesses may share some signs and symptoms and specific testing is the best way to tell the two apart. Seniors/ older adults have been severely affected by the diseases especially covid19. Here is a table with symptoms to watch out for.

SYMPTOM	COVD-19	FLU
Fever or Chills
Fatigue
Body Aches
Cough
Sore Throat
Shortness of breath
Loss of Taste or smell
Runny or Stuffy Nose
Headaches
Sneezing
Nausea and Vomiting
Diarrhea

How to Prevent Covid-19 and the Flu

Vaccination is the number one and most effective way to prevent both covid-19 and the flu. Vaccination helps the body build antibodies to fight the virus, this helps reduce the burden that comes with the illnesses, hospitalizations, and deaths. Both Covid-19 and Flu vaccines have been proven to be safe in most populations including seniors.

Covid vaccines are available all year round at most local pharmacies and are fully paid for by all insurance companies. At Havenly Care Solutions, we understand the seriousness of the disease, this is why all our caregivers are fully vaccinated.

The “flu season” usually occurs in the fall and winter. While influenza viruses spread year-round, flu activity usually peaks between December and February. Flu vaccinations are available in most pharmacies starting in October until the end of winter.

Every Day Preventative Actions

Wash your hands regularly with soap and water
Cover your cough and sneezes
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth

When a senior is battling covid-19 and the flu, daily activities that are usually simple may become more difficult. Adhering to precautions of isolation during the illness period can be frustrating, especially for the senior loved ones with dementia and alzheimers. Our caregivers can be of great help during this difficult time. They can help ensure your loved one is correctly adhering to precautions and treatment as well as living as comfortably as possible.

Contact us at 781-257-2023 or Email: contactus@havenlycares.com for more information on how we can be of help to your loved one.

https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/keyfacts.htm

https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/flu-vs-covid19.htm