Influenza (Flu) and COVID-19 are both communicable respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. COVID-19 is caused by infection with a new corona virus (called SARS-CoV-2), and flu is caused by infection with influenza viruses. COVID-19 seems to spread more easily than flu and causes more serious illnesses in some people. It can also take longer before people show symptoms and people can be contagious for longer. More information about differences between flu and COVID-19 is available in the figure below.
What is the difference between Flu and COVID-19?
