In an interview for the magazine Medicina y Salud Pública, pediatric infectologist Sanet Torres with a practice at San Jorge Children Hospital indicated her concern about the increase in cases of influenza and the possible co-infection with COVID-19 .
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November 01, 2021The concern of the pediatric infectologist arises at the moment in which the gestational period in which the Influenza begins to increase in cases due to the cold season, it should be noted that both viruses have similarities in their symptoms.
During the pandemic, all the attention has been on COVID-19, of course. However, we cannot forget about other viruses that can be very dangerous, such as influenza.
Also known as influenza or flu, influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the virus of the same name. This can be especially serious, even deadly, among the elderly, newborns, and people with certain chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, asthma, and congestive heart failure. In addition, it can be complicated by pneumonia, bronchitis, and ear and sinus infections.
Although influenza viruses spread throughout the year, the most active season occurs during the fall and winter months. The peaks begin to rise in October and the busiest period is between December and February.
As a measure for the prevention of contagious diseases, it has been more than evident this year with the management of the Covid-19 emergency and millions of people around the world have understood it and have been vaccinated against this virus. However, We cannot ignore the fact that there are other viruses, such as those that cause influenza, which can sometimes cause complications and serious illness, hospitalizations and even death.
, since you can be exposed and not present any symptoms and it would rather be a suggestive topic, he says.
says the infectologist.
On the other hand, influenza having similar symptoms can be confused with COVID-19, the best thing to do in the case of feeling these symptoms is to perform the antigen test.
Now, we can also talk about other viruses that affect the pediatric population more, such as Adenovirus, which presents symptoms such as high fever, conjunctivitis and diarrhea. The most important thing in these cases is to identify the virus and find an antiviral that, when used promptly, can improve the patient's condition in a few days.
Torres emphasizes that he points out.
According to the Puerto Rico Department of Health, 946 cases of influenza were confirmed, marking an increase of 389 cases compared to the previous week, which showed a total of 557 cases. Due to the rise in recent days, strict monitoring of this virus is needed to more accurately assess its potential impact on public health.