The number of flu cases are steadily increasing as the flu season picks up steam.
If left untreated,a case of the flucould progress into pneumonia or another serious complication.
This is especially true for older adults, those with chronic conditions, and unvaccinated people.
Verywell Health / Brianna Gilmartin
While uncommon, its possible to be infected with both COVID-19 and flu at the same time.
I think a lot of people are stuck in limbo land with symptoms, Chin-Hong told Verywell.
Dual COVID-19 and flu tests make it possible to get tested for both viruses with a single swab.
It’s very tough to diagnose flu by symptoms only.
Getting Treated for the Flu
Your doctor may prescribe an antiviral medication if you have the flu.
Promptness is important if one wishes to benefit from treatment, Schaffner said.
I guess I’d better call the doctor.'
And by that time, the capacity to intervene with treatment is really substantially diminished.
Various strains of the influenza virus circulate each flu season.
This season, a majority of the sampled specimens are H3N2, an influenza A strain.
This strain typically affects older adults the most.
Fortunately,this years flu vaccinecontains antigens to protect against the H3N2-like virus.
It also accounts for other strains that may become widespread or dominant later in the flu season.
We’re still in the beginning of flu," he added.
“People can make a difference by getting the flu shot.”
What This Means For You
If you have any flu-like symptoms, get tested for COVID-19 immediately.
Healthcare providers may be able to prescribe antiviral medication for the flu.
For the most recent updates on COVID-19, visit ourcoronavirus news page.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Weekly U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.COVID Data Tracker.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Weekly Flu Vaccination Dashboard.
