Getting a flu shot 'super important' during COVID-19

Symptoms of the flu and COVID-19 are very similar, such as fever, body aches, fatigue, cough, headache, runny nose and shortness or breath. There is no one symptom that distinguishes one from the other. For that reason, it's important to tell your doctor about any symptoms you experience.

Both the flu and COVID-19 can lead to severe respiratory illness and have high morbidity rates, but wearing a mask, washing your hands and maintaining social distancing can help slow the spread of both viruses.

The biggest difference? There is a vaccine ready right now to help prevent the flu, doctors said, and it's an important part of staying healthy.

Yes. "It is super super important," said Dr. Cheryl Jackson, medical director of the Pediatric Emergency Department at UNC Medical Center. "It is important to prevent what you can."

Even with social distancing, getting a flu shot protects yourself and others. If fewer people become severely ill from the flu, there will be more hospital beds and resources available for COVID-19 patients and those who need other kinds of care.

Dr. Amir Barzin, a family medicine physician at UNC Health, pointed out that, even if an immunized person gets the flu, their chances of avoiding severe illness are better. Hospitals, doctors offices and clinics are working to make sure getting the flu vaccine is safe, so there is no excuse not to get one.

According to the CDC, people 6 months and older should get influenza vaccines by the end of October, although the vaccine should be offered throughout flu season.

Is it too soon to get your flu shot?