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Covid-19 & SCD
COVID-19 & Flu
Child in yellow mask

COVID-19 & Flu

The two viruses look similar, but there are key differences to consider.

What we know

What we know

  • Influenza/ flu virus is a respiratory illness similar to the COVID-19 virus that typically affects the nose and throat. It is very contagious and is spread through tiny droplets in the air from an infected person. The flu is very common during the colder times of the year.
  • Usually, both infections can be treated at home without seeing a doctor but with SCD being a high-risk disease, further treatment may be needed especially if complications arise. Because of the similarities between Covid-19 and flu, it is better to get tested. Both diseases are very contagious and easily spread and hence precautions must be taken to prevent illness.
Covid Flu

COVID-19 vs Flu

  COVID-19 Flu
Fever/Chills checkmark checkmark
Cough checkmark checkmark
Body Aches/Headache checkmark checkmark
Tiredness checkmark checkmark
Loss of Taste/Smell checkmark X
Runny/Stuffy Nose yellow circle yellow circle
Sore Throat yellow circle yellow circle
Shortness of Breath checkmark yellow circle
Severity Varies. Older adults and people with certain underlying conditions are at higher rsk of severe illness. Seems to cause more severe illness in more people than flu. Varies. Young children, older adults, and people with certain chronic conditions are at higher risk of severe illness.
Onset of Symptoms Later (2-14 days after infection) Earlier (1-4 days after infection)
Cause SARS-CoV-2 Influenza Viruses

Information provided by the CDC. Learn more at cdc.gov/coronavirus 7

Stay Safe During Flu Season

Stay Safe

Stay Safe During Flu Season

  • Just like with COVID-19, limit high risk exposure by:
    • Staying home when sick
    • Social distancing/ avoiding crowded areas
    • Avoiding close contact with suspected infected persons
  • Encourage frequent mask wearing
  • Cover your sneezes and coughs by using the crook of your elbow
    • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with your hand (washed or unwashed)
  • Healthy habits:
    • Wash hands frequently and properly with soap and water for 20 seconds
    • Use hand sanitizers if hand washing is not an option
    • Maintain a healthy diet which includes fruits and vegetables
    • Drink more water; 8-10 glasses a day

SCD Medications & Vaccines: What You Should Know

What You Should Know

SCD Medications & Vaccines: What You Should Know

  • Hydroxyurea
    • There are no effects when you take the flu shot vaccine while using hydroxyurea. When taking the vaccine ensure you are being given the flu shot and not the nasal spray flu vaccine as it cannot be taken whilst using hydroxyurea.
  • Disease modifying therapies
    • SCD patients taking crizanlizumab can receive the flu vaccine as with any other SCD therapies
  • Antibiotics
    • You can get a flu shot whilst on antibiotics
  • Other
    • Over-the-counter painkillers can be taken after the flu shot to relieve pain and fever from vaccine reactions.
References:
  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Similarities and Differences between Flu and COVID-19, 2022.