The Covid-19 case in Indonesia is another record, this is the difference between the new corona virus and the flu virus

KONTAN.CO.ID – Daily cases of the corona virus in Indonesia are again at a record high. Remember, there is a difference between the new coronavirus and the flu virus

Corona virus infections on Sunday (29/11) amounted to 6,267, which is the highest increase in daily cases in Indonesia. The additional new cases brought the total infection in our country to 534,266 cases.

As the new coronavirus pandemic continues to develop, the World Health Organization (WHO) says many people are pulling comparisons to the viruses that cause flu.

WHO stated that the new corona virus and flu virus both cause respiratory disease. However, there are important differences between the two viruses and the way they are spread.

“This has important implications for public health measures that can be implemented to respond to each virus,” the WHO said on its official website.

Also Read: Corona virus cases in Indonesia are another record, these are 15 symptoms of the corona virus according to WHO

What do the new coronavirus and flu virus have in common?

According to WHO, there are two similarities between the new corona virus and influenza, namely:

• The new corona virus and the flu virus have similar symptoms. That is, they both cause respiratory illness, ranging from asymptomatic or mild to severe and leading to death.
• Both viruses are transmitted by contact, droplets, and fomites. Thus, public health measures to prevent infection are the same. For example, maintaining good hand hygiene and breathing etiquette, such as covering your mouth when coughing with your elbow or a tissue.

What is the difference between the new corona virus and the flu virus?

WHO said the speed of transmission is an important point of difference between the two viruses.

The flu has a shorter incubation period or time from infection to symptoms than the new coronavirus. Likewise with the serial interval or time between consecutive cases.

The serial interval for the new corona virus is around 5-6 days. As for the influenza virus, the serial interval is 3 days. This means that influenza can spread faster than the new corona virus.

Transmission within the first 3-5 days of illness, or possible transmission of the virus before symptoms appear, are the main drivers of flu transmission.

On the other hand, “We know that there are people who can transmit the Covid-19 virus within 24 to 48 hours before symptoms develop. But, at this time, it does not appear to be the main driver of transmission,” WHO said.

Also Read: WHO: If only vaccines, it will not end the coronavirus pandemic

<!–