Influenza and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses.
COVID-19 and influenza have several differences, including different causes, complications and treatments. COVID-19 and influenza also spread differently, have different severity levels and a few different symptoms.
You cannot tell the difference between influenza and COVID-19 just by looking at the symptoms alone because they have some of the same symptoms. That’s why testing is needed to tell what the illness is and to confirm a diagnosis.
Can I catch both COVID-19 and influenza at the same time?
While it's quite rare, it's possible to become infected with both at the same time because influenza and COVID-19 are caused by different viruses.
As they both have similar symptoms, the only way to know for sure is to get tested.
Both COVID-19 and influenza can result in serious illness, hospitalisation and even death. If you get sick with both, it could increase your risk of having serious symptoms.
Research has shown (external site) that you are twice as likely to die if infected with both than with COVID-19 alone.
The best defence against influenza is to get an influenza vaccine every year. COVID-19 vaccination is also the best defence for COVID-19. Wearing a mask, washing hands frequently and social distancing can also help stop the spread of COVID-19 and influenza.
How do I know which virus I have?
RAT and COVID-19 PCRs only detect COVID-19 – they do not detect influenza as it is a different virus.
To find out if you have influenza you need to visit your GP or healthcare provider to get tested.