The winter months bring cooler weather, but they also bring a season loaded with viruses and germs. Cases of FLU continue to rise each and every week and in some places cases are up 30% from the week before. Cases across the US are at the highest level in over 25 years as a new strain, subclade K, spreads across the nation. The symptoms of all these viruses can overlap and become difficult to distinguish, but there are clues and differences that doctors look for.
Below is a break down of some common symptoms based on guidance from the CDC and medical professionals. (Keep in mind, everyone responds to viruses differently and there may be different variations of these symptoms or additional symptoms from what’s listed below.)
FLU Symptoms:
- Sudden onset
- Sudden Fever/chills/sweating
- Severe body aches and headaches
- Extreme fatigue for the short term
- Persistent Dry cough that doesn’t go away
- Shortness of breath
- Sore throat, possible
- Possible Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Duration 5-7 days
CLUES/NOTES: Hits fast and hard. **This year’s strain is nicknamed “Super Flu” with fevers up to 104-105 especially in those vulnerable groups. Symptoms typically appear 1-4 days after exposure. Testing can confirm diagnosis. Hospitalizations are quickly on the rise across the US.
COVID Symptoms:
- Gradual onset
- Fever (mild or high)
- Moderate body aches
- Shortness of breath and cough
- Headache and nasal congestion/runny nose
- Fatigue that may last for weeks
- Sore Throat – common -sometimes severe
- Possible loss of smell or taste
- Possible nausea/vomiting/diarrhea
- Duration 7-14 days
CLUES/NOTES: Symptoms similar to the flu and can range from mild to severe but has a slower onset. Testing is needed to confirm diagnosis. Generally symptoms develop 2-14 days after infection.
RSV Symptoms:
- Runny nose
- Cough
- Fever
- Wheezing or short episodes of apnea (not breathing)
- Trouble breathing – flaring of nostrils or straining chest muscles when breathing
- Decreased appetite – difficulty eating or drinking – watch for dehydration.
CLUES/NOTES: Usually mild in adults but can be very serious for infants, young children or the elderly. Seek medical attention if you notice difficulty breathing, not drinking enough fluids, or experiencing worsening symptoms.
NOROVIRUS Symptoms:
- Severe Nausea and vomiting
- Severe Diarrhea
- Stomach cramping
- Low-grade fevers/chills
CLUES/NOTES: If nausea and vomiting are the main symptoms, it’s likely not the FLU. Symptoms usually appear 24-48 hours after exposure. It’s very contagious- can get from contaminated food or drinks or from coming in close contact with someone who has the virus. After your symptoms stop, you’re still contagious for up to 48 hours.
Common COLD:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Sore Throat
- Mild cough
- Little or no fever
CLUE: Generally mild and gradually builds.
**As with any illness or concerning symptoms, please seek medical attention if your symptoms persist or worsen as ALL of these can progress to more serious illnesses requiring additional medical support or possible hospitalization.
Your doctor can test you for FLU and COVID and make the best recommendations for you. Infants, young children, those who are immunocompromised, and those 65+ are at a higher risk of these illnesses progressing to pneumonia or other medical complications which may lead to hospitalization.
This year, the flu has been nicknamed the “super flu”, as this aggressive strain is causing increased hospitalizations that have surpassed numbers seen in past flu seasons. Patients are reporting more intense symptoms and have also experienced chest pains, shortness of breath, and weakness that can persist for weeks after the illness has resolved.
There are several prescription antivirals available which can shorten the duration of symptoms, reduce complications, and lower your risk of hospitalizations. Studies show that flu antiviral drugs work best for treatment when they are started within 2 days of getting sick, but starting them later can still be helpful. Contact your physician as early as symptoms appear to determine if an antiviral is recommended for you.
Preventive Guidelines for the winter months ahead:
- Wash your hands frequently or sanitize hands when you can.
- Drink plenty of fluids to keep you hydrated. When you get sick, this becomes even more important.
- Get plenty of rest. Sleep is so important and will help you ward off any illnesses and help you recover if you become sick.
- Contact or see your doctor when symptoms start to be tested for FLU or COVID or if your symptoms are getting worse. Your doctor can determine if you would benefit from antivirals or other respiratory treatments.
- Get your FLU and COVID vaccines annually or as directed by your physician. Although the vaccines may not be 100% effective as the strains of these viruses are constantly changing, they can help lessen the side effects and keep you out of the hospital should you get sick. Even at this late date, a flu vaccine can help lessen the effects should you get sick.
- If you have a fever, stay home until the fever has disappeared for at least 24 hours without fever-lowering medicines (Tylenol or Advil).
- Consider wearing a mask when out in public or traveling to decrease the chances of exposing yourself and others around you.
Our Care Office can help if you do happen to become ill, and need some additional support such as meals or transportation to your medical appointments. And if I can help answer any questions or help you decipher how to handle your symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out.
I pray you all have a healthy New Year!
Lisa Crump, RN, Parish Nurse
