Lack of rapid tests to diagnose covid-19 and influenza A at consultation with primary care physicians | Leader in Social Informatics

Semergen board member Dr. Vicente Martín revealed this in a statement to Servimedia. According to the scientific association, the autonomous communities of Aragon, Logroño and the Balearic Islands have received the most consultations for respiratory viruses, but there are no specific data to assess this increase.

“It is impossible for primary care physicians not to have rapid and low-cost tests that can diagnose viruses such as novel coronavirus (COVID-19), influenza A, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) during consultations. RSV ) via This way, the treatment will be more effective and, moreover, it will increase the prestige and prestige of the doctor, who will be able to diagnose the patient’s condition”, explains Dr. Martin.

From an epidemiological point of view, the collection of such data is also “of enormous value”, the scientific society said. Additionally, there is a rapid and inexpensive test on the market capable of detecting all three respiratory diseases that, according to Semergen, is ideal for everyday use.

On the other hand, other communities such as Castilla y León or Galicia have also seen new cases of respiratory symptoms, but the “incidence” is lower than in the above-mentioned areas.

dry cough

Dr Martin confirmed that the lack of rapid testing in primary consultations meant many patients needed to be tested at home. According to the Semergen manager, a dry cough is the most representative symptom among primary school-attended patients with EG.5, known as “Eris,” a new variant of covid-19. “Once we heard this characteristic dry cough, we knew we were probably dealing with covid-19, which could have other symptoms, such as a sore throat, but usually no other serious symptoms, such as in the first wave .”

However, Dr. Martin said, “many people don’t believe they have COVID-19 until it’s confirmed by a test.” of the month, such as August.

“Influenza A circulates year-round, and it spreads much better when we are in small, enclosed spaces, and that doesn’t stop it from spreading in August like it is now,” the Semergen board member added.

suggestion

Regarding the differences in respiratory conditions caused by air conditioners, Dr. Vicente Martín pointed out to Servimedia that almost all air conditioners are equipped with EPA filters, which makes it more difficult to have the dry cough characteristic of the new covid-19 variant or the symptoms of influenza A.

Semergen is advising the public to continue to exercise caution when faced with symptoms such as a cough or sore throat, and is re-issuing advice and recommendations that the public knows about respiratory infections.

“If you develop symptoms related to covid-19 or the flu, ideally, in addition to keeping a safe distance, wear a mask or stay home. It is also important to avoid sudden temperature changes or direct prolonged exposure to air conditioning units,” he said. concluded.