In the case of COVID19 statistics indicate that it is about 20X...

In the case of COVID19 statistics indicate that it is about 20X more infectious than the flu.
Fatality is 3-4% (>5% for Italy) compared to the 0.05% for the flu. That is 6 to 8X greater than the flu.

All the symptoms are like the flu, and for those under 40 the risk is low.
I agree that those at greater risk are 65+ but that fatality risk rate increases to 10-15% .
Those with a chronic condition including asthma, diabetes are also at risk.

Based on this I would not say it is only a little bit worse than the flu.