The winter respiratory virus season is unfolding differently this year, with both Covid and flu cases on the rise simultaneously. This unprecedented situation is causing concern among experts, who are closely monitoring the situation. In this article, we will explore the risk of coinfection, provide insights from infectious disease specialists, and discuss the importance of vaccination.
The Rise of Covid and Flu
Unlike the previous winter, where flu and RSV infections declined when omicron cases spiked, this year is witnessing a simultaneous surge in both Covid and flu cases. According to Dr. Michael Phillips, chief epidemiologist at NYU Langone Health, the number of positive tests for flu and Covid is nearly equal, with a slightly higher number of people affected by Covid.
Dr. Helen Chu, a professor of infectious disease at the University of Washington, expects a challenging flu season ahead for Washington state. Currently, flu levels are high or very high in at least 38 states, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
How Common is Coinfection?
Despite the simultaneous surge in Covid and flu cases, coinfection appears to be rare. Last year, the CDC reported that only 3% of people hospitalized with the flu tested positive for Covid. This year, coinfections remain at a similar level to the previous season.
Experts attribute the low rate of coinfection to a phenomenon called viral interference. This theory suggests that the immune response triggered by one infection can make the body less susceptible to another infection. The body’s defense system becomes stronger, closing the door to other viruses.
The Impact of Coinfection
Although rare, coinfection can have more severe consequences. A meta-analysis of 95 studies published in the International Journal of Infectious Diseases found that individuals infected with both Covid and flu were more likely to require ventilator support or face fatal outcomes, particularly when infected with the influenza A strain.
It’s important to note that lingering symptoms such as a cough or runny nose do not necessarily indicate coinfection. Even a normal respiratory infection can take several weeks to fully recover from.
Testing and Treatment
Determining whether you have Covid or flu can impact how quickly you can resume your regular routine. The CDC recommends isolating for five days after a positive Covid test or from symptom onset. For flu, people are considered most contagious during the first three days of illness. The CDC advises staying home until at least 24 hours after the fever subsides.
Differentiating between Covid and flu can also influence treatment options, especially for high-risk individuals. People aged 65 or older, pregnant, or immunocompromised can benefit from antiviral medications like Paxlovid for Covid or Tamiflu for flu. At-home tests that can differentiate and detect both Covid and flu are now available through the Test to Treat program.
For those not at high risk, the best course of action is to stay home if feeling unwell. Treatment for both Covid and flu is supportive, focusing on rest, hydration, and isolation. Ultimately, vaccination plays a crucial role in protecting against these viruses.
To stay informed about the latest news on respiratory illnesses, make sure to visit F5 Magazine.
Source: NBC News