Health FAQs

Covid-19 vs. Influenza (the flu)

COVID-19 is a contagious respiratory illness and is caused by infection with a novel coronavirus by SARS CoV-2. Influenza is also a contagious respiratory illness but is caused by infection with one of the many influenza viruses. Both can spread from person to person who are in close contact within one another mainly by droplets made when people cough, sneeze or talk. COVID-19 is more contagious to certain populations and age groups than the flu.

Both COVID-19 and the flu have varying degrees of signs and symptoms, ranging from no symptoms (asymptomatic) to severe symptoms. Common symptoms for both include:

  • Fever or feeling feverish/chills
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue (tiredness)
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Muscle pain or body aches
  • Headache
  • Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults

Flu viruses can cause mild to severe illness. COVID-19 seems to cause more serious illnesses in some people.

Typically, a person with COVID-19 can develop symptoms five days after being infected but symptoms can appear as early as two days and as late as 14 days after infection. People with influenza can develop symptoms anywhere from one to four days after infection.

There are currently 3 different vaccines available and authorized for emergency use (EUA) by the FDA for COVID-19: Moderna, Pfzer, and the Janssen. Moderna and Pfizer both requiretwo doses. You are considered “fully vaccinated” two weeks after the second dose of Pfizer and Moderna or two weeks after the single dose of Janssen vaccine. For more information on the Covid-19 vaccines please click the link: https://www.health.nd.gov/covid-19-vaccine-information

Treatment for Covid-19 and influenza are similar:

Treat the symptoms. Take Tylenol/Advil for fevers and aches and pains. Rest and drink plenty of fluids. Stay home so you do not pass the infection to others.

You should see a doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
  • Sudden dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Severe or persistent vomiting that does not go away
  • Flu-like symptoms that improves but then comes back with a fever or worsening cough

If you have any symptoms that are consistent with Covid-19, please complete this form and isolate:

https://mayvillestate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bBeGOXsYr2tGn6l

All information is consisted with the CDC and is subject to change. 

How do I quit smoking/vaping/chewing?

For free, private counseling support, contact NDQuits: https://ndquits.health.nd.gov/

Keep the tobacco policy here

Where can I get tested for a sexually transmitted infection?

In town:

Sanford Mayville Clinic, call for an appointment– 701-788-4500

Out of town:

Ally Health (formerly known as Valley Health)
1551 28th Ave. South
Grand Forks, ND 58201
701-775-2559

https://myallyhealth.org/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIv5Wxobaw8AIVWG5vBB3v-gdeEAAYASAAEgI15vD_BwE

Women’s Care Center (formerly known as First Choice Clinic – Fargo
103 N University Drive
Fargo, ND 58102
701-237-6530
Call a counselor at 1-877-908-2341

https://www.womenscarecenter.org/fargo-north-dakota

Mental Health and Substance Abuse Help

Grand Forks Region:

  • Crisis Line
    • 701-775-0525 or toll free at 1-800-845-3731
    • Northeast Human Service Center - Open Access (walk-in) assessment hours:
      • Mon-Fri 8am to 5pm
      • 701-795-3000 or toll free at 1-888-256-6742

Fargo Region:

  • Crisis Line
    • o 701-298-4500 or toll free at 1-888-342-4900
    • Southeast Human Service Center - Open Access (walk-in) assessment hours:
      • o Mon-Fri 8am to 5pm
      • o 701-298-4500 to toll free at 1-888-342-4900

Suicide Lifeline

  • 1-800-273-8255

First Step Recovery

  • 701-451-4900

ShareHouse

  • 877-294-6561

Beth’s Place

  • 701-566-9965