evidence: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): Similarities and differences between COVID-19 and Influenza 3 January 2024 | Q&AEnglish version last updated 3 January 2024. COVID-19 and seasonal influenza (flu) are both infectious respiratory viral infections. While some of their signs and symptoms are similar there are some important differences between them such as their ability to cause disease in different population groups COVID-19 and flu are caused by two different kinds of viruses, their signs and symptoms and groups at risk of severe complications are similar but not entirely the same. There are also differences in how they are treated. This questions and answers page will help you know the facts about both COVID-19 and influenza, so you can make more informed decisions about your health. [...] Both infections are caused by viruses, but their effect on individuals can vary. Some have no symptoms, or mild symptoms, and others may suffer from severe disease. Both influenza and COVID-19 can be fatal. In many cases they may share similar symptoms, including cough, runny nose, sore throat, fever, headache and fatigue. [...] Most people infected with COVID-19 and influenza do not develop severe disease and do not need any specific treatment as they recover at home. For more information about caring for someone with COVID-19 safely at home, see: