COVID-19, Cold & Flu

SSM Health is well equipped and ready to provide you diagnosis, care and relief for COVID-19 as well as both the flu and common cold. These are contagious, respiratory illnesses. But, it can often be difficult to tell the difference between their symptoms. Your best protection against COVID-19 and the flu is to get vaccines for both.

Symptoms of Respiratory Illness

COVID-19, the flu and the cold have similar symptoms, ranging from mild to severe. Early detection is important and can determine your treatment options. Symptoms respiratory viruses share include:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Muscles or body aches
• Headache
• Nasal congestion or runny nose
• Sore throat

COVID-19 Vaccine Recommendations

The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines have been approved for adults and children who are at least 6 months old. Based on CDC guidance, SSM Health recommends the vaccine for everyone, including those who have already had COVID-19. Call your doctor or log into MyChart to schedule a vaccine appointment. 

Some people are more likely than others to get very sick from COVID-19. This includes those who are immunocompromised, have underlying health conditions, or suffer from some certain disabilities. Visit CDC.gov for more details on your risk and how to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Flu Vaccine Recommendations

The flu vaccine is recommended for all individuals over six months old. At SSM Health we also recommend that children under nine receive two vaccines, administered four weeks apart, to maximize its benefits. This should only be done if your child has not received at least two vaccines in the past.

We also recommend that our patients 65 or older, with chronic medical conditions (diabetes, asthma or heart disease) and those who are pregnant get the vaccine. If you are in regular contact with anyone who fits the above criteria it is also advised that you receive your annual flu vaccine. September and October are typically when you should consider receiving the vaccine. Contact your primary care physician or SSM Urgent Care or Express Clinic to receive your Influenza vaccine.

Staying Healthy

The primary way to avoid getting sick is by washing your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating. Alcohol-based cleaners are also effective when soap and water are not available. Other measures you may want to consider are:

• Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Avoid close contact with others who have flu-like symptoms