Flu, coronavirus or cold?These are the symptoms that distinguish them

Within days, the case influenza Hospitalizations due to the virus have increased by 36%, and hospitalizations have increased by 75%. The most affected age groups were those under one year old in the first case and those over 80 in the second case.

This is clear from the latest announcement of the Surveillance System for Acute Respiratory Infections (SiVIRA) implemented by the Carlos III Health Institute (ISCIII).

As for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), The effects of immunization are already visible in children under six months of age. This is reflected in the fact that hospitalizations of the youngest children did not increase.

he CoronavirusFor its part, it remains stable as it has been in recent months.

To avoid contagion, hand washing and ventilation remain crucial. Despite the cooler temperatures, ventilating the house for a few minutes every hour or for a longer period of time is enough, especially in rooms where you spend more time, such as the bedroom, and especially first thing in the morning.

Restoring hand hygiene is key to avoiding the spread of viruses from one place to another. Also, as the health department points out, remember to use disposable paper towels to contain respiratory droplets or secretions; after using the paper towel, throw it away in the nearest trash bag.

flu symptoms

Flu symptoms are severe and can be tiring. The fever is very high; it is usually between 38 and 40 degrees.

The muscle pain and headache are severe and last for more than a day or two. Mucus and nasal congestion, that is, upper respiratory tract involvement, are punctual and mild. There is usually more dyspnea, or dyspnea, here.

If symptoms do not go away after three days or become more severe, it is recommended to see a doctor.

Symptoms of the new coronavirus strain

It should be remembered that this test can clearly distinguish the difference between influenza and SARS-CoV-2 infection. Although there are some details that give away the coronavirus, such as loss of smell or taste.

cold symptoms

Colds are compatible with daily life. Fever is usually low, or rather, low-grade.

You don’t get muscle aches or headaches when you have a cold. If anything, they were gentle and punctual.

The obvious symptom of a cold is nasal congestion. Sore throat and cough also occur more frequently.

Symptoms of RSV or respiratory syncytial virus

In the youngest children, recognition of RSV is evident when respiratory failure occurs. Then comes bronchiolitis, an infection of the thin airways (bronchioles) in the lungs.

It usually starts with symptoms similar to those of a common cold but persists over time with persistent coughing, congestion, wheezing, fever, or breathing problems.

It’s helpful to watch how your baby or child breathes: They often breathe through the lower part of their diaphragm, their stomach, and there is tension between their ribs or in the lower part of their neck.

read more