As autumn arrives with its cooler weather and pumpkin spice, so does the season of upper respiratory viruses.
This period, which spans from September to April, often leaves people wondering if their symptoms indicate COVID-19, the flu, or a common cold.
Timothy Brewer, a professor of medicine and epidemiology at the University of California Los Angeles, sheds light on the challenges of differentiating between these respiratory viruses during this season.
Similar Symptoms, Different Viruses
Respiratory viruses share common symptoms, making it challenging to distinguish between them clinically.
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Navigating the Overlapping Symptoms of Respiratory Virus Season
Symptoms such as fever, runny nose, sore throat, coughing, and fatigue overlap across these illnesses. Brewer emphasizes that respiratory virus season typically begins in September and extends through April, with COVID-19, RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), and the flu gaining prominence.
While it may be challenging to differentiate between these viruses based solely on symptoms, there are some noteworthy distinctions.
Notably, difficulty breathing and loss of taste or smell are more commonly associated with COVID-19. On the other hand, a runny or stuffy nose is more typical of the flu, while a decrease in appetite and wheezing may indicate RSV.
Contrary to popular belief, cold weather doesn’t directly cause illnesses but provides an environment conducive to virus survival and transmission.
The viruses responsible for the flu, COVID-19, RSV, and the common cold thrive in lower temperatures.
However, Brewer emphasizes that a significant reason for the seasonal spike in cases is people spending more time indoors.
These viruses often spread before symptoms become evident, making indoor gatherings in cold, dry conditions conducive to transmission.
In such settings, where people are nearby, these viruses can quickly jump from one person to another.
While knowing the specific virus may not be crucial for some healthy individuals who can recover at home, testing can still provide valuable information, especially if you’ve been in contact with vulnerable individuals.
Brewer suggests that sharing this information with family and close contacts can be important for their safety.
With many individuals vaccinated or having had previous COVID-19 infections, there’s better overall immunity compared to last years.
Vaccination reduces the risk of severe illness and hospitalization. Brewer highlights the importance of immunization, especially for those who are elderly, have underlying health conditions, or are immunocompromised.
While COVID-19 may resemble the flu for some healthy individuals, it can have severe consequences for those with underlying health conditions or compromised immune systems. Brewer underscores COVID-19 has led to significantly higher death rates than the flu.
Brewer advises individuals experiencing shortness of breath, confusion, or those with underlying lung or heart conditions to seek medical attention promptly.
The good news is that many preventive measures apply to all respiratory viruses. Regular handwashing, social distancing, and mask-wearing effectively curbing the spread of COVID-19, the flu, cold, and RSV.
“The single most important things are staying home when you’re sick and being up to date on your vaccinations,” Brewer concludes, emphasizing the importance of responsible actions during this challenging respiratory virus season.
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Source: USA Today via Yahoo News
