2020 has been dry and hot for the most part (so far), with people complaining about the scorching hot sun and oven-like room temperatures at night. Many of us were crying for when it would rain again and for the rainy-cool season to return.
Finally our wish has been granted. The rains are here with us. But with it comes the usual flu and cold season. People coughing and sneezing around you is soon to be a common sight. That, however, throws in a new challenge: How are we going to tell the difference between the symptoms of COVID-19 and the common cold and flu?
SIMILARITIES BETWEEN COVID-19 & FLU/COLD
They are all respiratory infection that can be spread from person to person. Meaning they travel in little droplets from an infected person when they speak, sneeze or cough. They are all characterized by coughing, sometimes shortness of breath (especially in comparison with cold). They also result in fatigue (tiredness), running nose, nasal congestion (sometimes), body aches, sore throat, loss of appetite and respiratory issues.
DIFFERENCES
There are some differences, however. The table below shows the differences between the COVID-19 and the more familiar flu and cold.
If you are unsure whether the symptoms you are experiencing are that of Covid-19 or common cold and flu, kindly take advantage of this simple but effective screening tool designed by Apple Inc in collaboration with the Center for Disease Control in the USA below.
Link: COVID-19 Screening Tool
COVID-19 usually causes serious respiratory problems and can be fatal (deadly). With the way our Ghanaian communities are structured, one may need to take swift action to avoid infecting family and friends. The Ghana emergency Help Line is 112.
Share this information and help stop the spread!
