Coronavirus, Influenza and How to Protect Yourself

Influenza, or the flu, is not anything new to the world. It is a very common respiratory infection that may hinder a healthy human for a few days to a week, but can deadly to those who have weaker immune systems. Common signs of the flu include: 

• Fever or feeling feverish/chills (*It’s important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.)  
• Cough  
• Sore throat  
• Runny or stuffy nose  
• Muscle or body aches  
• Headaches  
• Fatigue (tiredness)  
• Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.  

 

In the 2019-2020 season alone, the flue has already hospitalized over 180,000 Americans and caused 10,000 deaths (Center for Disease Control). The CDC continues to recommend everyone over the age of 6 months to receive their annual influenza vaccinations and to seek medical help if you believe you are exhibiting symptoms of the flu. 

 

The coronavirus has taken the world by storm. A family of viruses that can be seen in both humans and animals, particularly mammals and birds. Those infected have seen illness range from things as small as the common cold to more severe illnesses like Middle East Respiratory Syndrome and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome. The newest strain is called “novel” coronavirus, or 2019-nCoV, and has been the talk of the news since its outbreak in Wuhan, China in late 2019. Symptoms of this respiratory illness include:

• Runny nose
• Sore throat 
• Cough  
• Fever

In more severe cases the illness has led to pneumonia or other breathing difficulties, and in rare cases, is fatal. (World Health Organization)

 

The World Health Organization is requesting that people receive medical assistance if they start to exhibit any of these symptoms. Since they are similar to symptoms of other diseases, there is a chance that patients do not have novel coronavirus and can be treated accordingly. If one is diagnosed with the virus, which can only be proved through lab testing, they are advised to receive appropriate care for their symptoms and optimized supportive care if needed. More specific treatments are currently being identified and will undergo clinical trials.

 

Although these illnesses are from different viruses, prevention for both is similar. In order to prevent either illness from spreading, officials ask for people to practice safe respiratory hygiene. Sneeze or cough in directions away from people or into flexed elbows or tissues. Washed hands regularly with either warm soap and water or alcohol-based hand rubs. Proper personal hygiene and self-care are also recommended.



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