Is It Strep or Is It The Flu?

Feeling run down? Are you experiencing a fever, sore throat with painful swallowing, loss of appetite? Even though the symptoms are similar, the most common culprits this time of year are two very different illnesses – strep throat or the flu. The key difference between strep and the flu are its root causes – the flu is caused by a virus where strep throat is caused by bacteria. It might be tempting to self diagnose, but it is important to head to the doctor and see exactly what is causing you to feel under the weather. Prompt medical treatment will lessen the chances of spreading the virus to friends or family.

What Exactly Is The Flu?

The flu is much worse than just a run of the mill cold. It is a viral infection that attacks the respiratory system, mainly the nose, throat, and lungs. The flu is highly contagious and in some cases can cause death. More than 200,000 people are admitted, with around

36,000 actually dying from complications of the flu virus. Luckily, there are some safeguards against the disease, including an annual flu vaccine. The vaccine is also available for children as young as 6 months of age. Even though the vaccine is not 100% effective, it does help prevent the spread of the flu and protect certain people who aren’t able to get the vaccine including very young children, the elderly, and people with compromised immune systems. There is no cure for the flu, however prompt treatment at the onset of symptoms will help lessen the discomfort and duration.

What Exactly Is Strep Throat

Strep is a bacterial infection that is transmitted by airborne respiratory droplets (coughs or sneezes) and/or saliva (kissing or shared drinks). There are roughly 3 million cases per year. It is most common among school-aged children and teenagers, but can be found in adults. Symptoms not only include a sore throat but also fever, pain when swallowing, and swollen lymph nodes. Rarely, complications can involve the heart or kidneys. There is no vaccine to prevent strep, but it can be treated with antibiotics.

While they are very different in the way they attack the body, both flu and strep throat should be taken seriously. It is important to visit your doctor when you start to feel symptoms for early detection and treatment. Flu and strep are spread very easily, so if you think you might be coming down with either of them, after seeing your provider, you should stay home, rest, drink plenty of fluids, and make sure you are fully recovered before going back to work or school.

You can visit TrustCare at any of our convenient locations for high quality medical treatment of the flu or strep and we will help you feel better faster!