Rinda Angom
The Covid variant, Omicron infection continue to surge globally as it is super contagious. Adding to the battle is the development of dual infections such as Flurona or Delmicron while the latter’s existence has not been confirmed by the Indian Council of Medical Research (IMCR).
What is Flurona?
It’s a twin infection of both Influenza (Flu) and Corona in an individual. The first case of Flurona has been reported from Israel when found in a pregnant woman. However, The Washington Post says that even before the term was coined, Flurona instances have been detected in other countries like the US, Brazil, Philippines etc.
Flurona is not a variant of Corona Virus, it’s a condition when an individual has the flu and Coronavirus simultaneously or one after the other.
How does it spread?
As it is a combination of both flu and Covid 19 which are respiratory diseases, Flurona spreads through droplets and aerosols when an infected person breathes, speaks, coughs and sneezes.
Symptoms of Flurona
Flurona symptoms may include the symptoms of both flu and Covid-19. The symptoms of flu and Covid-19 is almost similar making it difficult to diagnose Flurona.
Flu symptoms
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Fever & chills
- Cough
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Vomiting & diarrhoea
Covid-19 symptom
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Fever & chills
- Cough
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Vomiting & diarrhoea
- shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Loss of taste or smell
The best way to detect is to get the RTPCR or swab test done for flu separately.
How severe is Flurona?
Many health experts have claimed that simultaneous infection can further tax one’s immune system. Health experts and doctors have also stressed getting flu and Covid 19 vaccination to protect against severe infections.
Dr Suchin Bajaj, founder-director, Ujala Sygnus Group of Hospitals says that the chances of ‘severity’ are more as it can spread faster.
Dr Bajaj said,” Both the viruses can wreak havoc in the body which can lead to other diseases as well. This is why it is a concern.”
Flurona in Children
As many young children are still not eligible for the Covid-19 vaccine especially in India, there can be increasing reports of co-infections in children more. As both the flu and Covid-19 can cause pneumonia and other ailments, it can risk developing of worse disease in children with underlying heart or lung problems.
Prevention
Prevention remains the same as applied for Covid-19 such as maintaining at least 1-meter distance from others, wearing a well-fitted mask, washing and sanitizing hands, avoiding crowded places or poorly ventilated rooms.
If any of the symptoms are detected, one should get tested and seek medical help.