Major Differences Between COVID-19 and Seasonal Flu.

 

Differences Between COVID-19 and Seasonal Flu.

Ø SUMMARY

1.   What is seasonal flu?

2.   How dangerous is COVID-19?

3.   What are some differences between COVID-19 and influenza?

4.   How can I protect myself and others from COVID-19?

1.   seasonal flu

Seasonal influenza is characterized by a sudden onset of fever, cough (usually dry), headache, muscle and joint pain, severe malaise (feeling unwell), sore throat and a runny nose. The cough can be severe and can last 2 or more weeks. Most people recover from fever and other symptoms within a week without requiring medical attention. But influenza can cause severe illness or death especially in people at high risk.

2.   How dangerous is COVID-19

Although for most people COVID-19 causes only mild illness, it can make some people very ill. More rarely, the disease can be fatal. Older people, and those with pre- existing medical conditions (such as high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes) appear to be more vulnerable.

 

3.  What are some differences between COVID-19 and influenza

The speed of transmission is an important point of difference between the two viruses. Influenza has a shorter median incubation period (the time from infection to appearance of symptoms) and a shorter serial interval (the time between successive cases) than COVID-19 virus. The serial interval for COVID-19 virus is estimated to be 5-6 days, while for influenza virus, the serial interval is 3 days. This means that influenza can spread faster than COVID-19.

Further, transmission in the first 3-5 days of illness, or potentially pre-symptomatic transmission –transmission of the virus before the appearance of symptoms – is a major driver of transmission for influenza. In contrast, while we are learning that there are people who can shed COVID-19 virus 24-48 hours prior to symptom onset, at present, this does not appear to be a major driver of transmission.

 

4.  How can I protect myself and others from COVID-19

a) Practice Social Distancing

• Avoid gatherings such as melas, haats, gatherings in religious places, social functions etc.
• Maintain a safe distance of at least one Metre between you and other people when in public places, especially if they are having symptoms such as cough, fever etc. to avoid direct droplet contact.
• Stay at home as much as possible.
• Avoid physical contact like handshakes, hand holding or hugs.
• Avoid touching surfaces such as table tops, chairs, door handles etc.

 

b) Practice good hygiene

• While coughing or sneezing cover your nose and mouth with handkerchief. Wash the handkerchief at least daily
• It is preferable to cough/sneeze into your bent elbow rather than your palms.
• Do not Spit or shout in public places to avoid the spread of droplets.
• Do not touch your eyes, nose and mouth with unclean hands.
• Ensure that the surfaces and objects are regularly cleaned.

 

Ø COVID-19

1.  Symptoms

2.  Prevention

3.  Treatments

1.  Symptoms- COVID-19 affects different people in different ways. Most infected people will develop mild to moderate illness and recover without hospitalization.

Most common symptoms:

1. fever
2. dry cough
3. tiredness
4. Less common symptoms:
5. aches and pains
6. sore throat
7. diarrhoea
8. conjunctivitis
9. headache
10. loss of taste or smell
11. a rash on skin, or discolouration of fingers or toes

2.  Prevention- Protect yourself and others around you by knowing the facts and taking appropriate precautions. Follow advice provided by your local health authority.

To prevent the spread of COVID-19:

Clean your hands often. Use soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand rub.

Maintain a safe distance from anyone who is coughing or sneezing.

Wear a mask when physical distancing is not possible.

Don’t touch your eyes, nose or mouth.

Cover your nose and mouth with your bent elbow or a tissue when you cough or sneeze.

Stay home if you feel unwell.

If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention.

Calling in advance allows your healthcare provider to quickly direct you to the right health facility. This protects you, and prevents the spread of viruses and other infections.

Masks

Masks can help prevent the spread of the virus from the person wearing the mask to others. Masks alone do not protect against COVID-19, and should be combined with physical distancing and hand hygiene. Follow the advice provided by your local health authority.

 

3.  Treatments- To date, there are no specific vaccines or medicines for COVID-19. Treatments are under investigation, and will be tested through clinical trials. World Health Organization

Self-care

If you feel sick you should rest, drink plenty of fluid, and eat nutritious food. Stay in a separate room from other family members, and use a dedicated bathroom if possible. Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.

Everyone should keep a healthy lifestyle at home. Maintain a healthy diet, sleep, stay active, and make social contact with loved ones through the phone or internet. Children need extra love and attention from adults during difficult times. Keep to regular routines and schedules as much as possible.

It is normal to feel sad, stressed, or confused during a crisis. Talking to people you trust, such as friends and family, can help. If you feel overwhelmed, talk to a health worker or counsellor.