COVID-19 or FLU? Make difference with just one test

A high-specific molecular rReal-Time PCR test is available at Avicena Laboratory for simultaneous detection, identification and differentiation between the new coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 and seasonal influenza.

In the winter, when seasonal colds and flu are common, during a COVID-19 pandemic, many people try to find the answer to the question – what are the key symptoms that can be used to distinguish between these diseases?

COVID-19, influenza, and colds share a number of features and a wide range of similar or identical symptoms that make it difficult to differentiate early in the disease.

For proper treatment of any respiratory disease, it is always very important to know the true cause of the disease, in order to act in a timely and targeted manner to the appropriate cause.

There are many different symptoms that occur in people with COVID-19. Many of them appear the same or similar in colds and seasonal flu, and less often in allergies. The most common symptoms characteristic of SARS-CoV-2 virus and influenza A and B virus (Influenza A / Influenza B) are: fever / fever, cough, shortness of breath / wheezing, sore throat, stuffy nose, muscle aches, headaches, and in some people, diarrhea and vomiting occur.

The main difference in symptoms is the loss of taste and smell, reported in a certain percentage of people infected with SARS-CoV-2, i.e patients in whom COVID-19 was confirmed. Of course, there is a difference in the incubation period of the viruses, i.e the time when the symptoms of the risky contact appear, their intensity and duration.

However, due to the similarity between the symptoms of these infections, it is very difficult to distinguish, so the most accurate diagnostic tool is laboratory tests, in consultation with a doctor.

With this PCR test patients will have the opportunity with early detection to determine the cause of respiratory disease (SARS-CoV-2, influenza A and B virus and RSV) and according to the results obtained to receive appropriate therapy that will help them better and to deal with the infection faster.

The combined molecular rReal-Time PCR for detection of COVID-19 and seasonal flu is available in Avicena Laboratory in Skopje, Taftalidze, without an appointment.