As the healthcare community prepares for a potential surge of flu and COVID-19 cases this winter, Dr. Rohit Varma, Chief Medical Officer of CHA Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center and Chief Executive Officer of the center’s Southern California Eye Institute, in an interview with Asbarez, shared his insights about the contagious respiratory illnesses and recommended ways in which community members can avoid transmission and protect themselves.
Aleen Arslanian: What is the difference between the flu and COVID-19?
Dr. Rohit Varma: Flu (also known as Influenza) and COVID-19 are caused by different viruses. Flu is caused by influenza A and B viruses, while COVID-19 is caused by a coronavirus called SARS-C0V-2. While symptoms for both viruses can be similar (fever, chills, cough, sore throat, body aches, shortness of breath, etc.), a unique difference between the two is that with COVID-19 you are more likely to experience loss of taste or smell. Also symptoms of COVID-19 and flu appear at different times. COVID-19 symptoms tend to appear two to 14 days after exposure, while flu symptoms usually appear one to four days after exposure. Severe illness is also more likely with COVID-19 than with flu. COVID-19 is contagious for a longer period of time, and spreads more quickly than the flu. Finally, we are learning more about the long term effects of COVID-19, known as long COVID. In this condition people feel like they are unable to think clearly and don’t have enough energy to do their daily activities. No such condition exists with flu.
A. A.: How can community members distinguish whether they have the flu or COVID-19?
R. V.: Because both influenza and coronavirus share similar symptoms, the best way to know which virus you have contracted is to get tested for COVID-19, and a flu test.
A. A.: Is it possible to have the flu and COVID-19 at the same time?
R. V.: Yes, it is possible to have flu and COVID-19 at the same time because COVID-19 is caused by SARS-CoV-2 and flu is caused influenza viruses.
A. A.: Does the flu vaccine protect against COVID-19?
R. V.: Unfortunately not. Flu vaccines do not protect against COVID-19. You need the COVID vaccines to be protected from COVID-19.
A. A.: Will new flu viruses or COVID variants circulate this season?
R. V.: There are clearly 60 known variants of the flu viruses and every year some of them are more predominant. There may be new variants of the COVID viruses this season.
A. A.: When will the flu season begin and when will it reach its peak?
R. V.: While influenza (flu) viruses are detected year long, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, flu season usually starts in October and can go to late May. Peak season usually happens between December and February.
A. A.: In what ways can a surge of the flu and COVID-19 cases impact a community?
R. V.: An increase number of COVID-19 cases or hospitalizations can not only highly impact our healthcare system, but can affect many work places in the community as well—leading to crowded emergency rooms and hospitals and business with limited services and resources. However, with the increase of vaccinations, infection rates appear to be declining. But surges are always possible. Given what we know now, we are better equipped with taking the vaccine and keeping people safe.
A. A.: What should individuals do when they feel symptomatic?
R. V.: First of all, if you are feeling symptomatic, get tested for coronaviruses or the flu viruses to determine what virus you may have. Many people with the flu or mild symptoms of COVID-19 can recover at home with rest and drinking lots of fluids and taking measures to reduce fever. If your symptoms are severe please visit your healthcare provider or visit the urgent care for advice and treatment.
A. A.: Should community members get the flu vaccine?
R. V.: Absolutely. The flu vaccine can reduce your risk of developing the flu by 60 percent and prevent you from developing a severe case of flu that may require hospitalization. You can also help others in the community by lowering the risk of spreading infection to friends and family, including people who are at high risk of developing severe disease.
A. A.: Is CHA HPMC currently offering flu and COVID-19 vaccines?
R. V.: CHA HPMC employees are encouraged to get their flu vaccine and we offer the flu vaccine daily for all employees. Covid-19 vaccines are currently not being offered at our facility.
A. A.: How can community members best protect themselves and others?
R. V.: The best way to protect yourself and others is by following the guidelines for respiratory illnesses when you are in public:
- Wear a mask that covers your face and nose;
- Maintain a distance of 6 feet whenever possible, while in public;
- Wash hands frequently;
- Disinfect high-touch areas frequently;
- Get an annual flu vaccine to help reduce risk of getting the flu;
- Get recommended COVID-19 vaccines and booster doses to help reduce the risk of these diseases.
A. A.: Is there any other pertinent information that community members should know about COVID-19 and the flu?
R. V.: Getting vaccinated for COVID-19 and the flu can help reduce the spread of these viruses and help keep you and your loved ones healthy.