With the arrival of autumn and falling temperatures, seasonal viruses are making a comeback. Their symptoms, which are relatively similar to those of Covid19 , sow doubt in the minds of patients and complicate the work of doctors. So, Covid19 or not Covid19? We’ll help you differentiate between them and avoid panic in the case of a mild cold.
The symptoms of Covid19
When you have Covid19 you are likely to experience the following symptoms:
- Fever (temperature above 37.8°)
- A loss of taste and a loss of smell
- A dry cough that persists over time
The Covid19 takes different forms. Symptoms can be mild (almost non-existent in asymptomatic people) or severe (in symptomatic patients).
In some cases, patients may also experience fatigue, sore throat, or breathing difficulties (shortness of breath).
Symptoms of the flu
When you have the flu, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Fever (temperature above 37.8°)
- Significant fatigue associated with aches and pains
- A dry and extremely painful cough
- Headaches
- Shortness of breath and difficulty breathing
In the case of the flu, symptoms appear quickly and abruptly and last between 1 and 2 weeks. In the most severe cases, the flu can last up to 1 month.
There are two pieces of information that help differentiate Covid19 from the flu. Firstly, the speed of transmission of the flu is greater than that of Covid19. Second, the reproduction rate is 2 to 2.5 times higher for Covid19 than for influenza.
Cold symptoms
The common cold is often the result of a minor infection in the nose, throat, sinuses or respiratory tract.
When you have a cold, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Sneezing and light coughing
- Sore throat
- Aches and pains (often slight)
In the case of a cold, symptoms appear gradually. In most cases, a cold does not prevent you from continuing your daily activities. That’s what makes it different from the flu and severe forms of Covid19.
Covid19, flu, colds: controlling your temperature
In this epidemiological context of seasonal viruses, it is essential to regularly monitor its temperature. Connected patch thermometers such as Tucky will allow you to continuously monitor your temperature and that of your family, children, adults or the elderly wherever you are. You can record your temperature over several days and make sure that you don’t put anyone at risk.
If you have any doubts, don’t neglect barrier gestures and avoid all contact! Indeed, these three viruses are transmitted by respiratory droplets and by contact. Don’t forget to consult a health professional to establish a precise diagnosis!
SOURCES:
NHS : Get informed
OMS : Read the article
The Guardian : Read the article