Can I get the flu and COVID-19 at the same time?
Yes, it is possible to be infected with the flu and COVID-19 at the same time. It is possible for a person to be infected with more than one respiratory virus simultaneously, including the influenza virus and the virus that causes COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) [2]. It is also possible for a person to be infected with multiple types of influenza viruses, such as influenza A and influenza B, at the same time [2].
Understanding Co-infection with Flu and COVID-19
Co-infection means that more than one virus causing illness is present in the body at the same time. This phenomenon can occur with different respiratory viruses that circulate during the same seasons, such as the flu and COVID-19 [2]. Preliminary data from hospital surveillance networks indicates that there have been reported cases of patients admitted to the hospital with both the flu and COVID-19, with co-infection rates accounting for approximately 5.37% of total laboratory-confirmed flu hospitalizations during October and November 2023 [2].
Similar Symptoms of Flu and COVID-19
The symptoms of the flu and COVID-19 are very similar, making it difficult to distinguish between them based on symptoms alone [4]. Common symptoms shared by the flu and COVID-19 include fever or feeling feverish/chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle and body aches, headache, vomiting, and diarrhea [4]. Loss of taste or smell may be more common with COVID-19, but it can also occur with the flu [4]. Due to this similarity, diagnostic testing is essential to accurately identify the specific virus causing the illness [4].
Risks of Co-infection
Both the flu and COVID-19 can cause severe illness and complications that may lead to hospitalization or death, even in healthy people [4]. People infected with both the flu and COVID-19 at the same time may suffer from more severe illness compared to those infected with only one of the viruses [4]. Groups at higher risk for severe illness include older adults, particularly those over 65, people with certain chronic medical conditions, pregnant women, and infants [4]. Potential complications for both include pneumonia, respiratory failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), sepsis, heart injuries, multi-organ failure, and worsening of chronic medical conditions [4]. Secondary bacterial infections are also more common with the flu [4].
Prevention and Treatment
The best way to prevent the flu is to get an annual flu vaccine [1]. Additionally, COVID-19 vaccines approved or authorized by the FDA are effective in preventing severe illness and death [4]. It is recommended to get both vaccines to reduce the risk of infection and lessen the severity of the disease [4]. In addition to vaccination, good hygiene practices such as frequent hand washing, covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding close contact with sick people help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses [1].
If you suspect you have the flu or COVID-19, or both, it is important to consult a healthcare provider. A doctor may recommend testing to determine the virus causing the illness [4]. Early diagnosis can help in receiving appropriate treatment faster [4]. In some cases, antiviral medications may be necessary, especially if started within two days of symptom onset [1]. To learn more about seasonal flu, you can visit Seasonal Flu: Prevention, Symptoms, and Treatment (Arabic).
Medical references
Cite this answer
ClinicsJo Editorial Team. Can I get the flu and COVID-19 at the same time? (Sep 13, 2026).
https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/can-i-get-flu-and-covid-19-at-the-same-time#answerRead the text version with referencesHow to use medical information