Difference between influenza and Omicron?

 How to differentiate between influenza and Omicron?

Symptoms of influenza and Omicron are very similar but there are a few key ways to differentiate between the two. 

Influenza is a more serious illness that can lead to hospitalization while Omicron is a less serious virus that typically resolves on its own. 

Additionally, the onset of symptoms is different for each virus: Influenza typically begins with fever and chills while Omicron often starts with a headache or body aches

Omicron mutations of the coronavirus are spreading rapidly around the world, coinciding with seasonal colds and other respiratory infections, so there is an urgent need to distinguish between the two infections as Omicron's symptoms are  identical to  those of influenza.

Many of the new mutated symptoms, such as sore throat, runny nose, and muscle aches, can resemble cold or flu symptoms, and the best way to tell them apart is to get tested, said Dr. Sarah Ash Combs, a physician at US Children's National Hospital.

Headaches and dry cough

Epidemiologist Abdul Sayed said according to CNN, however, that coorthoid and flu usually cause symptoms such as fever, fatigue, body aches, sore throat, difficulty breathing, vomiting, or diarrhea, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Corona infection, however, can be distinguished from the headache and dry cough that often accompany it, he said. 

He pointed out that loss of taste and smell is the main warning sign of corona infection and remains a possible symptom, although it is now less common than in other mutations.

He also warned that people with severe chest pain, especially a dry cough that has worsened, should consult a doctor immediately.

No symptoms.

For people who are infected but have no symptoms, the virus may not yet be developed enough to show up on a rapid test, he said, noting that in such cases it is best to wait five days after infection to test and stay informed, according to the CDC.

She also said that a negative test does not necessarily mean it is not Corona, noting that it is best to test several times within 12 to 24 hours to be sure.

Back to school

Whether it's the CORONA virus or a cold, it's always good to isolate when dealing with a viral illness, he said, noting that isolation has become more important as the risk of corona increases.

Coombs said protocols such as sterilization and reducing communities indoors continue to effectively contain the spread of the disease.