Be Smart – Get Your Flu Shot This Year

Flu shots at Baptist

If you would like to schedule a flu shot, contact any Baptist Medical Group primary care clinic to make an appointment. Most insurance plans cover flu vaccines, but check with your insurance company if you have questions. Be sure to have your insurance information handy when scheduling your appointment.

Recognize the Symptoms: Flu vs. COVID-19

Flu presents many of the same symptoms as COVID-19, and can have varying degrees of signs and symptoms, ranging from no symptoms (asymptomatic) to severe symptoms. Common symptoms that flu and COVID-19 share include the following:

  • Fever or feeling feverish/chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue (tiredness)
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Muscle pain or body aches
  • Headache

Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than in adults.

COVID-19 Symptoms To Look For

Because some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar, it may be hard to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone. Testing may be needed to help confirm a diagnosis. In addition to the symptoms already listed, COVID-19 can also lead to the following:

  • New loss of taste or smell
  • Trouble breathing
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
  • New confusion
  • Inability to wake or stay awake
  • Bluish lips or face

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.

If you need a COVID-19 test and are not having severe symptoms, we want you to get tested as soon as possible. Most pharmacies offer at-home test kits, as well as the COVID-19 vaccine and boosters, during regular business hours. Check with your insurance provider to see if at-home COVID-19 test kits would be free for you.