COVID-19 VS THE FLU: WHAT TO KNOW

MARLBOROUGH- "More important than ever, its always been important but this year even more" said Dr. Agustina Boehringer when asked about this year's flu shot. It won't stop you from contracting COVID-19, but it can help your body fight against it. As flu season collides with the coronavirus pandemic, some call the chance of catching either illness; a double threat.

Both viruses are extremely similar clinically, making it hard to distinguish between the two. Symptoms for both include a fever, cough, body aches, sore throat and nasal congestion. But when it comes to COVID-19, loss of taste and smell can be the biggest indicator. And when it comes to transmission, the coronavirus is much more contagious.

However, as people continue to wear masks, social distance and practice better hand hygiene, this flu season should be a mild one. On top of that, Massachusetts is now rewiring all students to get the flu vaccine. Students must be vaccinated before the end of the year, unless they have a medical or religious reason.