The rapid rise in the number of COVID 19 has scared all of us across the globe. The mortalities have resulted in increased fear amongst the population. Being a viral strain, COVID 19 is more prone to mimic its other common counterparts like the influenza virus, allergies, and common cold. The health threats to Australians also increases with every passing day.
However, the increased virulence of COVID 19 is attributed to the unique symptomatology. To avoid confusion and anxiety among people with regards to the symptoms of the infection they’re suffering from here are some ways to distinguish common flu from COVID 19.
What is the difference between common cold and COVID 19?
Common cold as the name suggests is a common viral infection caused due to influenza virus. The common cold has a very low impact on your body and the symptoms are milder than that of COVID 19. On the other hand, COVID 19 is a more virulent infection that has an unpredictable disease course. They are more severe and if the person has a pre-existing lung disease or any other long-term infection or immunocompromised, the disease could be fatal. Unfortunately, the COVID 19 has no fixed medication.
How To differentiate Common Cold & Cough and COVID 19?
Fortunately, the set of symptoms patients more commonly present with are pretty different for both the infections. Remember, the common cold is extremely mild and hardly anyone loses their life. Here are some of the possible symptoms of both the infections.
1. Common cold and allergies- Cold, nose block, low grade fever, chills, repeated sneezing, coughing, fatigue, congestion of eyes, body ache, sore throat, mild chest discomfort and itching.
2. COVID 19 – The symptoms include high continuous fever, dry cough, difficulty in breathing, sore throat, diarrhea, no sense of smell and taste, reduced oxygen levels and the cold is a very less common symptom here.
How to treat the healthy issues at home?
1. Common cold – The treatment can include nasal decongestants, analgesics, steaming, staying away from the allergens and adequate hydration. All this would be more than enough. With or without treatment the symptoms of common cold will subside in a week in most of the cases.
2. COVID 19 – The primary pointers to be considered are self-isolation, regular oxygen saturation monitoring, rehydration, breathing exercises. Immediate hospitalization and an appointment with a GP is needed if the symptoms increase.
When to go to the hospital?
It is imperative to note that in both cases if the patient experiences more discomfort, he/she should visit a hospital nearby to know the status of their health. If your oxygen levels are dropping, if the fever won’t subside despite home management, or if your difficulty in breathing worsens it’s time to immediately consult a doctor.
Are there ways to prevent COVID 19?
The prevention of any infectious disease lies in good sanitation and personal hygiene. Wash your hands with a proper sanitizer, cover your nose and mouth with a mask, maintain adequate social distancing (at least of 6m), and finally avoid sharing products. It is necessary to follow the right preventive measures to lead a healthy life. Take needful steps to avoid catching the flu.
