With the onset of winter and an increase in respiratory illness cases in Spain in the run-up to Christmas, questions are once again being raised: Differentiate symptoms that identify COVID-19, the common flu, or the common cold. Understanding the characteristics of each disease is crucial to taking appropriate steps to overcome them and seek necessary medical care when necessary.
he Coronavirus diseaseits variant BA.2.86 (better known as Wintergreen) According to health authorities, it typically presents with symptoms such as persistent fever, dry cough, loss of taste or smell, extreme fatigue and difficulty breathing. However, it’s important to remember that symptoms can vary from person to person.
According to the latest data reported by the Acute Respiratory Infection Surveillance System (Sivira), corresponding to the week from December 11 to 17, the impact of the new coronavirus on health centers has shown an upward trend, with the incidence rate reaching 113.2 cases per 100,000 inhabitants; the hospitalization rate was 1.9 , among which people over 80 years old once again became the most affected group (16.6).
The year ends with a new surge in flu cases, which is common at this time and is confirmed by the latest Svira bulletin: flu incidence has increased across all age groups in primary care, with hospitalization rates rising to 2.9 per year example. For 100,000 residents, especially adults aged 80 or older, the ratio rises to 15.5.
Health services ask that, as a last resort, you only go to hospital if you have respiratory problems. Therefore, it is recommended that patients affected by any condition should visit primary care emergency rooms or family physicians to avoid saturation of general emergencies.
As New Year’s Eve approaches, it is also recommended to use masks at family gatherings on these dates, stay home and use antigen tests to determine which type of pathology is present if symptoms occur. However, it is worth remembering that treatment is similar for all cases, so health authorities recommend preventing exposure to avoid a larger rebound expected in January 2024.
Differentiate between the common flu and a cold
Recognizing the common flu Symptoms include high fever, muscle pain, nasal congestion, sore throat and cough. Although some of these symptoms are consistent with those of COVID-19, the flu typically manifests more suddenly and with greater intensity in the body.
As for colds, they usually start with a stuffy nose, sneezing, a slight cough, mild general malaise, and sometimes a sore throat. Unlike the flu and COVID-19, cold symptoms tend to be mild and short-lasting.
Health experts recommend paying attention to the combination of symptoms and their severity. If any signs of illness appear, especially if you have been in contact with an infected person, it is recommended to undergo diagnostic testing and follow appropriate health guidelines, such as preventive isolation and use of masks.
Seven tips to avoid contagion
In light of this situation, and in the face of this backlash, Health offers a series of recommendations:
- 1. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- 2. Use disposable tissues to contain respiratory droplets or secretions.
- 3. After using the paper towel, throw it into the nearest garbage bag.
- 4. Perform hand hygiene (washing with soap and water or cleaning with alcohol gel) regularly and after contact with respiratory secretions.
- 5. Wear a mask when respiratory symptoms occur.
- 6. Follow vaccination recommendations against respiratory microorganisms.
- 7. If possible, avoid going to work with symptoms of illness.