It is very difficult, even impossible to distinguish between flu and Covid-19 symptoms, says doctor

NOT everyone who sneezes or has a fever is Covid-19 positive, a doctor has said.

Noting that Covid-19 is mainly dangerous for people with chronic health problems, Dr Hasan Topal (pictured) said: “Covid-19 is not a fatal disease but pneumonia is. People should pay attention to this distinction.

“There is a very thin line between seasonal flu and Covid-19. It is very difficult and even impossible to distinguish between them. The best option is to consult an expert and to be tested. Symptoms should not be associated with Covid-19 every time.”

Dr Topal said that it is necessary to learn whether or not a patient has been in contact with an infected person abroad or a patient with flu. “Not every flu case is Covid-19, but everyone must be cautious.”

Stating that a high fever, sore throat and dry cough are among the most common symptoms in Covid19, Dr Topal added: “Sneezing, stomach ache, diarrhoea, loss of sense of taste and smell, and bloodshot eyes are rarely seen symptoms. [Covid-19] may develop with shortness of breath, chest pain, empurpling, heavy breathing and haemoptysis.”

Dr Topal said that seasonal flu should “only last a week” despite “all the heavy symptoms”.

“People are psychologically being affected, they should consult their doctors,” he said.

“First of all, it is important to learn about patients’ anamnesis before treatment. The treatment process should be within Covid-19 measures and the patient should be PCR- tested. Patients should self-isolate for three days in their homes even if Covid-19 is not suspected.”

Meanwhile it was reported that there has been “huge demand” among “high risk” patients for pneumonia vaccinations at the Lefkoşa Trenyolu polyclinic. However, this year’s flu jabs have yet to arrive from Turkey.