The COVID-19 pandemic has been ongoing for more than a year now in India, and there seem to be no signs at the moment to indicate that we will be free of this disease in the coming years. Owing to this fact, we should take all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of not just our families, but everyone around us as well.
We should all remember that COVID-19 is not the only disease in the air currently. For instance, common flu is still prevalent. In fact, it is now much more difficult to identify if a person has COVID-19 or the common flu due to the similarities in their symptoms. Neither of these should be left untreated, and it is advised you consult a General Physician if you wish to receive the correct medication.
Similarities between COVID-19 and the flu
The basic similarity between the two is that both of them are contagious respiratory diseases caused by viruses. The mode of transmission of the disease is also similar, in that both are communicable through the air and can be spread due to the droplets of aerosol formed while talking.
The key common factor between the two lies in their symptoms, which include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Sore throat
- Muscle aches
and many others.
In rare cases, an individual can also suffer from both COVID-19 and the flu. This could lead to serious symptoms such as pneumonia, acute respiratory disease syndrome, heart attacks, and other complications as well. A person infected with the flu or with mild COVID-19 symptoms can take rest and recover at home, and only if the symptoms are extreme do they have to be admitted to a hospital.
These are just some of the basic symptoms that can be observed. If you suspect that you are suffering from other/major symptoms, then it is advised to reach out to any Online Doctor Consultation platform to seek assistance.
Differences between COVID-19 and the flu
The symptoms of flu can be noticed 1-4 days after exposure, while COVID-19 symptoms can be noticed 2-14 days after exposure. The treatment also varies between the two diseases. The flu can be healed with antiviral drugs and can be prevented by taking an annual flu vaccine. However, COVID-19 can only be healed with specific vaccines and Remdesivir is the only antiviral drug that is approved for treating the virus.
How can you avoid getting COVID-19 and the flu?
The same steps can be taken to ensure safety from COVID-19 and the flu. Some of these include:
- Avoiding large events and mass gatherings
- Avoiding close contact (within 6 feet) with anyone outside your household
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Always remember that irrespective of the disease, it is better to take care of it at the earliest to minimize the strain the body has to go through. Follow the safety guidelines and rest assured, you will be safe and healthy with no danger of contracting any viral disease.