H3N2 influenza and COVID-19 are two respiratory illnesses caused by different viruses that have impacted public health on a global scale. While there are similarities in their symptoms, transmission, and preventive measures, significant differences make them distinct diseases.
H3N2 influenza
H3N2 influenza is a type of influenza A virus that causes yearly seasonal flu outbreaks. The virus is spread through respiratory droplets generated when an infected person coughs, talks or sneezes, and symptoms include fever, cough, fatigue, body aches, and shortness of breath. Vaccines are available for H3N2 influenza, and antiviral medications can be used to treat the illness. However, influenza can still cause millions of cases and deaths yearly.
COVID-19
COVID-19, on the other hand, is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus and emerged in late 2019. The virus is also spread through respiratory droplets, and symptoms can range from mild to severe, including fever, cough, loss of taste or smell, fatigue, body aches, and shortness of breath. COVID-19 has dramatically impacted public health more than H3N2 influenza, with millions of cases and thousands of deaths globally. Vaccines have been developed and are being distributed globally to help prevent the spread of the virus, and various treatments are available to help manage the illness.
Symptoms
With no symptoms (asymptomatic) to severe symptoms, COVID-19 and the flu can have various symptoms. The following are typical flu and COVID-19 signs and symptoms:
- experiencing chills or feeling feverish
- Cough
- respiratory issues or shortness of breath
- Fatigue (tiredness) (tiredness)
- unwell throat
- runny or congested nose
- Body aches or muscle aches
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea (more likely in children with flu, but can develop at any age with COVID-19) (more frequent in children with flu, but can occur in any age with COVID-19)
- Taste or scent alteration or loss occurs more frequently with COVID-19.
However, COVID-19 has been associated with a wider range of symptoms, including loss of taste or smell, headache, sore throat, and gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and diarrhoea.
Transmission
Both viruses can be spread through respiratory droplets generated when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. However, COVID-19 is thought to be more contagious than H3N2 influenza, with a higher rate of transmission from asymptomatic carriers.
Impact
H3N2 influenza causes seasonal flu outbreaks yearly, resulting in millions of cases worldwide and thousands of deaths. However, COVID-19 has had a much greater impact on public health, with millions of cases and thousands of deaths globally in a much shorter period. COVID-19 has also caused significant disruptions to daily life, with many countries implementing lockdowns and other measures to control the spread of the virus.
Prevention and treatment
Both viruses can be prevented through hand hygiene, wearing masks, and social distancing. Vaccines are available for H3N2 influenza, while COVID-19 vaccines have been developed and distributed globally. Treatment options for both viruses include antiviral medications and supportive care, although COVID-19 has been associated with a higher rate of severe illness and hospitalization.
