How to differentiate between coronavirus, flu and colds

The symptoms can be really difficult to differentiate because the symptoms of these three respiratory illnesses are very similar. Coronavirus and influenza share clinical manifestations Very similar, except the route of transmission through the air is the same. Additionally, both can lead to severe symptoms, hospitalization, and even death. Not only can the disease you have be distinguished by the treatment (which may be similar), but it can also be convenient if you are still waiting to be vaccinated, since there is no point in getting vaccinated if you have just contracted the virus . The new variant of Covid-19, BA.2.86, better known as Pirola, is once again worrying health authorities, although only omicron is prevalent in Spain and usually presents with persistent fever, dry cough, loss of taste or smell or both symptom. .., extreme fatigue and difficulty breathing. Although symptoms may vary from person to person.

According to the Ministry of Health, The common flu presents with at least one of the following four symptoms:

■ Although some of these symptoms are related to coronavirusFlu usually manifests more suddenly and with greater intensity in the body.

■ of influenza This disease affects humans and other animal species (birds, pigs, etc.) since ancient times, causing epidemics every year, mainly in winter. The disease is caused by different types of viruses, which can also combine with each other to create new strains of influenza. It is highly contagious because it spreads easily from one person to another through the saliva or secretions we excrete when we talk, cough, or sneeze.

■ About cold, usually begins with nasal congestion, sneezing, mild cough, mild general malaise, and sometimes sore throat. Unlike the flu and coronavirus, cold symptoms tend to be mild and short-lasting, without fever.

Types of influenza viruses

There are four types of influenza viruses: A, B, C and D. Influenza A and B viruses circulate and cause seasonal epidemics of the disease.

• this Type A virus They are further divided into subtypes based on the combination of proteins on their surface. Subtypes A(H1N1) and A(H3N2) are currently circulating in humans. A(H1N1) is also currently known as A(H1N1)pdm09 because it caused the 2009 pandemic and replaced the A(H1N1) virus circulating at that time. All known epidemics are caused by influenza A viruses.

• this Type B virus They are not divided into subtypes, but can be divided into lineages: B/Yamagata and B/Victoria.

• this Type C virus They are found less frequently, usually cause minor infections, and are not important from a public health perspective.

• this Type D virus They primarily affect livestock and do not appear to cause infection or disease in humans.

Vaccines do not always prevent disease, but they can provide protection against disease and reduce the risk of complications. Vaccination campaigns are still ongoing and health authorities recommend vaccinations.