The expert told about the difference between influenza and acute respiratory viral infections

Influenza and common cold (ARVI) have many symptoms in common, but there are differences between them. Andrei Isaev, founder of the DNAOM laboratory, told Izvestia on January 29 about how to distinguish between them.

He noted that influenza starts suddenly and sharply, with a rapid rise in temperature to high values and accompanied by severe weakness, while a cold develops gradually, with a slow increase in symptoms. Temperature in acute respiratory viral infections may be absent or rises slightly, it is also characterized by drops and rises during the day, while in influenza it stays consistently high. The cough in influenza is dry and painful, while with a cold it eventually becomes from dry to wet when the phlegm liquefies.

"Flu symptoms persist for about a week, and full recovery can take about a month, while a cold goes away in 5-10 days" - said Isaev.

According to the expert, the flu should not be underestimated, because complications from it occur quite often. In case of unfavorable outcome of the disease, the patient may face hemorrhagic pulmonary edema and problems with the cardiovascular system - myocarditis and pericarditis.

Speaking about the actions when the first symptoms appear, he emphasized that it is important to immediately contact the doctor and follow his recommendations. For treatment, there are targeted therapies aimed at blocking key steps in the life cycle of the virus to prevent it from multiplying and spreading in the body.

Rest is key, so the expert advised staying at home and avoiding contact with others to avoid spreading the infection. He also recommended drinking more tea or compotes to maintain water balance and ease symptoms. If fever causes discomfort in the form of a severe headache, difficulty falling asleep, you can take antipyretics without waiting for the temperature to rise to 38.5 degrees.

Isaev noted that it is worth using a humidifier to relieve dryness of mucous membranes. If necessary, you should drink vitamins C and D on the advice of a doctor and do not prescribe antibiotics yourself, as they are ineffective against viruses that cause flu and colds. In addition, you should see a doctor again if the condition worsens or symptoms persist for more than 5-7 days, especially for children and the elderly, as well as those who have chronic diseases or their immune system is weakened.

In addition, the expert pointed out the importance of laboratory tests for SARS-CoV-2 and influenza during the seasonal increase in the incidence of the disease. According to him, testing for virus antigens allows for accurate diagnosis, identification of a specific infectious agent and prescription of appropriate treatment.

Isayev advised to wash hands regularly with soap and water, avoid contact with sick people, use masks in public places, get an annual flu vaccination and lead a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, physical activity and adequate sleep. These measures will help to recover faster and avoid possible complications.

Earlier, on January 29, the chief physician of the European Medical Center (EMC), Rozanna Gardashnik, told Izvestia that in order to strengthen immunity in the cold season, it is especially important to follow the diet, maintain a sufficient level of physical activity, avoid stressful situations and follow the sleep schedule. According to her, it will be useful for the body to add to the diet products with a high content of vitamin C. These may include cranberries, rose hips, citrus fruits, sauerkraut and garlic.