Do you have Influenza, RSV, or Covid?
The Winter season brings more than just cold temperatures. Well it doesn’t “bring” really anything with it per say, but it does facilitate the environment for viruses.
The most common winter virus has always been Influenza, and has been divided into 2 types, type A and type B. The difference is very minimal and they both would cause the same symptoms or complications. Influenza A is transmitted through animals as well as humans and Influenza B is transmitted from human to human.
Respiratory syncytial virus or RSV is especially dangerous in children under 1 year old because their immune system hasn’t had time to fully develop. RSV is so widespread that almost all children have had it by their 2nd birthday. Although there is no vaccine for RSV, there are certain medications a child can take to limit the complications when being infected with the virus. RSV is also dangerous to the elderly because of their weakened immune systems and low defense.
Since 2019 we have unfortunately have had to add another type of virus to the Coronavirus family more commonly known as Covid-19. This virus is specifically dangerous and may cause complications in the elderly and people with compromised immune systems or underlying medical issues such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease.
Although much is still unknown about Covid-19, one thing Covid and all viruses have in common is that cold temperatures increase the probability of transmission.
Dangers of Infection
The population most affected by a virus infection, including Influenza, Covid, and RSV, are those with weakened immune systems and the elderly above 65 years old. It is recommended those in this category receive a vaccine to better combat a virus. The chances of becoming severely ill from a virus infection vary from person to person. Not everyone’s immune system will respond to an infection the same way, also not everyone will experience the same symptoms the same way. Although there are common symptoms to a virus mostly everyone infected will experience like;
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Congestion
- Low grade fever
- Body aches
Some people might experience more severe symptoms like
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Loss of taste and smell
- Shortness of breath
- Fast heart rate
What do you do if you get sick?
If you do feel sick and experience any symptoms the best course of action to take is following those guidelines set forth by your medical provider when getting tested. Your healthcare provider will recommend rest and fluids while your immune system fights off the virus. Depending on your infection, you may be required to follow up with your doctor.
Most people take between 5 and 10 days to recover from a virus, if your symptoms worsen while infected it is recommended to seek emergency medical care immediately.
Premium Healthcare
Since the height of the pandemic in South Florida 3 years ago. Dr. Keila Hoover M.D and the clinical research team at Premium Healthcare has developed life saving treatment for those infected with common viruses, specifically Covid-19.
If you have been diagnosed with Covid or any virus, have been exposed to someone with, or are feeling symptoms, please make an appointment online or call us at (305)265-4441 and we will gladly help you find relief.
