Now that we know influenza and COVID-19 are two viral diseases that will coexist, we must remain vigilant about the continued mutation of viruses. In Colombia, data from the National Institute of Health (INS) showed an increase in COVID-19 infections in Bogota and some areas in the north and northeast of the country. From the outbreak to October 2023, the number of confirmed cases has reached 6,639,916.
In light of this, health authorities urge people to continue to protect themselves and, above all, they recommend paying attention to the first symptoms of any respiratory infection and not self-medicating to avoid complicating the patient’s health.
Because influenza, COVID-19, and other respiratory illnesses can cause similar symptoms, diagnostic testing is needed to identify the causative agent. People can even be infected with the flu and the virus that causes COVID-19 at the same time, so respiratory differential diagnostic testing can be valuable in quickly identifying the virus and receiving the right treatment.
If a person suspects they have the flu or COVID-19, it is important to stay home and make an appointment with a health professional for diagnosis with a rapid test like the Panbio™ Covid-19/Flu A&B Rapid Test (Nasopharyngeal). ), by collecting a single sample, can detect the antigens of SARS-CoV-2, influenza A and influenza B, which helps diagnose and differentiate these viruses so that health professionals, if deemed necessary, can prescribe appropriate treatments or make appropriate suggestions.
Dr. Oscar Guerra, medical director of rapid diagnostics at Abbott, said, “Distinguishing whether we are infected with SARS-CoV-2 or the influenza virus will allow us to make treatment and isolation decisions to avoid further infection at home, at work and at work. “In addition to being able to better monitor the disease, our friends are also connected. ”
Know the most common symptoms of the flu and COVID-19
Unlike the common cold, which comes on gradually and has mild symptoms, the onset of the flu is usually sudden. Your symptoms may be similar to COVID-19 symptoms and may not be distinguishable without testing. They may vary slightly depending on a person’s age, but typical flu symptoms(ii) include: fever, chills, body aches, cough, headache, sore throat, fatigue, and nasal congestion lasting 3-4 days.
Regarding the SARS-CoV-2 virus, remember that symptoms may appear 2 to 14 days after a person is exposed to the virus. More specific symptoms of COVID-19 include: muscle aches, body aches, or pain; difficulty breathing, loss of taste or smell, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea.
Prevent the spread of respiratory infections
Generally speaking, respiratory illnesses are spread when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes and another person breathes infected air. To a lesser extent, transmission occurs when an infected person touches a surface after touching their eyes, nose, or mouth, and another person comes over, touches the same surface, and then touches their eyes, nose, or mouth.
These viruses can also be spread directly from an infected person’s hands to another person’s hands, such as when shaking hands with someone who has recently coughed or sneezed.
Influenza and COVID-19 viruses can survive on hard surfaces for up to 48 hours(iii). It is important to clean and disinfect workplaces, schools and homes regularly, especially if someone who lives or works with the person coughs or sneezes. The safety precautions we took during the pandemic still hold: get vaccinated, wash your hands frequently, stay home when you’re sick, and wear a mask if you’re in a high-risk area.
We know the ever-changing nature of counseling, testing and treatment options can be overwhelming, but if one thing remains, it’s the importance of keeping our families and communities healthy. Following simple safety and diagnostic practices can help give you and your loved ones peace of mind.