With the onset of cooler weather in the Northern Hemisphere, there has been a notable increase in COVID-19 and flu cases, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Health experts are emphasizing the importance of vaccinations to combat these illnesses, with suggestions of receiving both the flu and COVID-19 vaccines simultaneously.

Hospitalization data: A concerning trend

Early cases of influenza indicate a return to its seasonal pattern, while the debate continues among scientists about whether COVID-19 will follow a similar seasonal trend. The expectation is that respiratory viruses, including COVID-19 and the flu, will surge post-Thanksgiving and throughout the holiday season.

Recent data shows a 9.7% increase in COVID-19 hospital admissions in the U.S. within a week, alongside significant rises in flu-related hospitalizations. This uptick highlights the growing burden on healthcare

The CDC’s flu surveillance team, led by Alicia Budd, notes a continuous increase in flu cases across various U.S. regions. Despite the overlap in symptoms between COVID-19 and the flu, it’s crucial to identify and differentiate these illnesses for appropriate treatment and containment.

Distinguishing between COVID-19 and the Flu

With shared symptoms between COVID-19 and influenza, understanding the nuances in symptoms is vital. Both infections weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to other illnesses. Vaccination is strongly recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older.

We can reduce risk by doing these six things:

1. Get vaccinated for both COVID-19 and the flu.
2. Practice proper sneezing and coughing etiquette.
3. Stay home if you feel symptoms developing.
4. Avoid touching your face, especially with unclean hands.
5. Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces in your home.
6. Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently.

The crucial role of the measuring body temperature

In this context, monitoring one’s body temperature becomes a crucial aspect of health management. The Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer, known for its ease of use, reliability, and accuracy, is an essential tool for daily health checks. Given the similarity of early symptoms in both COVID-19 and the flu, such as fever, keeping track of body temperature can help in early detection and timely medical intervention. Regular temperature checks, ideally twice daily, can provide vital information about one’s health status, particularly in a time when respiratory illnesses are prevalent.

Regular monitoring with a dependable thermometer like the Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer can aid in distinguishing between normal body temperature fluctuations and potential signs of illness. This practice is especially important during the flu season and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, where early detection can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes and preventing the spread of these viruses