Both are contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. Some of the symptoms are very similar and it may be difficult to tell the difference.

Influenza symptoms usually appear one to four days after exposure whereas COVID-19 symptoms may appear 2−14 days after exposure. COVID-19 symptoms that are different from influenza are new loss of taste and/or smell.

Both can spread from person to person by respiratory secretion droplets when an individual coughs, sneezes, sings, or talks. Both are spread primarily by being in close contact with an infected person. Both viruses may also be spread by touching an unclean surface or object and then immediately touching your mouth, nose or eyes with unclean hands.

No. The two diseases are completely separate, and being immunized for one does not make you more susceptible or immune to the other.

The seasonal influenza vaccine will not interfere with the body’s ability to fight COVID-19.

Yes. To reduce your chances of getting ill and to help prevent serious illness and hospitalization, community members should get both vaccines. They are both safe and effective.

The FDA approved the updated 2025-26 COVID-19 vaccine for those 65 and older or with a chronic medical condition. Others not in the approved group can get the vaccine based on shared decision making with their doctor. People is this second group may need a prescription or doctor’s order to receive the vaccine from a commercial pharmacy. When making your vaccine appointment ask your vaccine provider if a prescription is required.

Insurance coverage for vaccines is generally driven by recommendations from the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). Before receiving the updated 2025-26 COVID-19 vaccine ask your vaccine provider if it is covered by insurance. Be aware that you may be asked to pay full retail price if you are not in one of the groups currently recommended by ACIP to receive the vaccine.

The updated vaccine is currently being distributed nationwide, but local availability is uncertain. Be sure to check with your local vaccine provider to make sure they have the updated 2025-26 version when making a vaccination appointment.

• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, and mouth
• Clean your hands often
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, your elbow, or your sleeve
• Get plenty of sleep, eat healthy food, and exercise
• Stay home with flu-like symptoms (temperature of 100.5 F or higher, plus a cough or sore throat)
• Get vaccinated at your doctor’s office, Monterey County Health Department vaccination locations, or at a retail pharmacy. Most health plans pay for flu vaccinations
• Wear a mask in public

Influenza is spread mostly by droplets of respiratory secretions produced when people cough, sneeze, sing, or talk. The droplets can enter another unprotected person’s mouth or nose or possibly be inhaled in to the lungs. Less often, influenza is spread by touching a surface or object contaminated with influenza virus.

Individuals with influenza are most contagious in the first three to four days after their illness begins. Individuals can infect others one day before showing symptoms and remain infectious five to seven days after the onset of symptoms. Those with weakened immune systems may be able to pass on the virus for longer than seven days.

• Wash your hands
• Clean and disinfect high touch surfaces — To avoid spreading germs, frequently disinfect items like doorknobs, cell phones, and light switches
• Stay hydrated — Aim for drinking half of your body weight in ounces of water
• Make healthy food choices — To reduce inflammation in your body choose foods high in vitamins and antioxidants
• Prioritize sleep and exercise — Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise five times per week
• Soothe a sore throat — Drink warm liquids like water with a squeeze of lemon or green tea
• Take care of your teeth — Brush and floss twice per day to prevent the buildup of plaque and potential infection in your mouth
• Avoid pollution, allergens, and irritants — Reduce your exposure to aerosols and sprays like cleaners and hairsprays, pollens, and smoky environments which can increase inflammation in your lungs
• Avoid smoking