It's the time of year we're all dreading - flu season is here Picky Parents. And with COVID far overstaying its welcome, we might be in for double trouble! (Talk about icing on the cake to finish out 2020).
But no worries! We’ve pointed out some key differences and similarities to help inform you & arm you against these rascals this flu season.
How are they similar?
The Covid and Flu viruses seem so similar that you’d think they’re tag teaming us. For one, they’re spread pretty much the same way, like:
- Through close contact with an infected person
- From droplets that disperse from an infected person's cough and sneeze
- And even through dirty surfaces like doorknobs, desks, etc.
But not only that, they also share many of the same symptoms, such as:
- Fever
- Cough and shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Body aches or muscle pain
- Sore throat
Now let's take a moment, we understand even a quick glance at this list might have your head spinning. They’re so similar! But this may actually work in your favor. Because many of the things you’re already doing to keep your kiddo healthy during the pandemic is also working to protect them during this flu season. Take that!
So, no need to switch up what's been working. Keep up good hand hygiene by teaching your kids the hand-washing song and make sure to sanitize often (especially by targeting those germ hotspots like phones, pens, pencils, etc.).
And of course, keep having them drink lots of water, get outside & stay active, and get in all those good vitamins because all of these activities will help keep your kiddo’s immune system stronger than ever!
How Do They Differ?
As you know, COVID is kind of the new virus on the block we’re still learning about. But there are some subtle differences in this one that may be helpful to be aware of. For one, it seems that the flu has a much faster onset than COVID. This means you might feel fine one minute, then aching all over the next.
COVID on the other hand, tends to take a little longer to develop. One healthcare specialist put it like this: “To date, the flu is more likely to appear with rapid onset of illness, high fever and prominent headache and body aches”.
And of course, we have a different vaccine for COVID-19 and another one for the flu. Vaccination can offer an added layer of protection against the flu, preventing it or at least lowering its effects.
Keep doing what you’re doing!
At the end of the day, getting too caught up on the what if’s will only cause more stress which can lower our immune defenses. Let’s focus on what we can control, and keep up the healthy habits we’ve been teaching our little ones all year.
And don’t forget to check out the Immune Builder Bundle! It includes all the must-have essentials your pediatrician recommends for an extra boost this flu season: Invincible Vitamin C with elderberry and zinc, Picky Eater Multi, and Dynamite D3.
*If your little one starts experiencing symptoms, please seek a medical professional.