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Coronavirus vs. the Flu—How Our Testing Services Can Tell the Difference for Patients in Somers Point, NJ

Coronavirus vs. the Flu Somers Point NJNot so long ago, if you or a loved one came down with a fever, chills, body aches, and a sore throat, you probably assumed the influenza virus was to blame—and there was a good chance that you were right. However, since early 2020, a new coronavirus strain that causes COVID-19 has put that assumption in doubt because COVID-19 symptoms are so similar to those of the flu. The only sure way to tell whether someone has COVID-19 or the flu is through medical testing. If you’re in the Somers Point, New Jersey, area, you can get tested for both coronavirus and the flu at Cape Regional Urgent Care’s Marmora clinic, located only a short drive away.

Cape Regional Urgent Care is dedicated to making nonemergency health care accessible to as many people in Somers Point and surrounding communities as possible. We were among the first coronavirus testing sites in New Jersey, and we continue to offer COVID-19 tests by appointment during extended hours seven days a week. Additionally, thanks to our on-site lab, we’re able to offer an array of medical testing services, including flu tests.

Why It’s Important to Distinguish Between a Coronavirus Infection & the Flu

Despite the similarities regarding symptoms, there are some key differences when it comes to coronavirus versus the flu. Here are a few of them:

  • The flu is caused by a strain of influenza virus, while COVID-19 is caused by a different type of virus called SARS-CoV-2.
  • Although most people who contract either COVID-19 or the flu will recover, both viruses can cause severe complications that require hospitalization. However, experts say the mortality rate for COVID-19 is at least 10 times as high as that of the flu.
  • Flu viruses have been circulating for over a century and a number of flu treatments have been developed, some of which are available at Cape Regional Urgent Care. COVID-19, on the other hand, was first identified in 2019. Treatment options are under development but remain limited.

Medical testing is the best way to determine whether you’re experiencing the flu or COVID-19. Once you have an accurate diagnosis, your health care provider can advise you of the next best steps to take to protect your health and that of others around you.

If you’d like to be tested for the coronavirus and/or the flu at Cape Regional Urgent Care, you can use our convenient online service to reserve your testing time at one of our three locations, including the Marmora clinic that’s closest to Somers Point. Do you have questions? Contact us today for more information.