PEOPLE are taking Covid-19 tests before visiting hospitals for flu medication, which is a sign of increased awareness, medics have said.
With Omicron symptoms mirroring the cold and flu to a large extent, a Covid-19 test would serve as a pro-active measure, helping in curbing the spread of the virus and facilitating early detection and treatment of seasonal diseases.
Dr Ramachandran
“We see an increase in asthma, allergy and flu cases during this season, which is nothing new,” said American Mission Hospital general physician Dr Babu Ramachandran.
“This year, especially with schools and offices resuming, cases are on the rise – and the majority of them have mild symptoms, at least for the time being.
“The difficulty is distinguishing between flu and Covid-19 because the symptoms, particularly of the new variant Omicron, are similar.
“In such cases, we check the previous history – but what I’ve seen is that most people come to hospital after a Covid-19 check – either RT-PCR or a rapid test.”
The senior physician regarded it as a positive sign as it can aid in early detection and treatment.
“With symptoms like cough, itchy throat, and runny nose that are common to both flu and the virus, people are on high alert,” he said.
“They want to rule out Covid-19 right away, which prompts them to get tested.
“This is a sign of public awareness, which is essential to combat the virus. Early diagnosis will reduce the spread of the virus and ensure better treatment.”
According to researchers, the Omicron variant likely acquired at least one of its mutations by picking up a snippet of genetic material from a virus – possibly one that causes the common cold – present in the same infected cells.
Dr Ramachandran also urged those with allergy and asthma to take the necessary precautions.
“I would advise people not to be afraid of Covid-19, instead, follow safety guidelines, get vaccinated, and if you feel symptomatic, get tested and treated.”
Dr Kunju
Shifa Al Jazeera Medical Centre medical administrator Dr Shamnad Majeed Kunju urged citizens and residents to consult medics – if they showed classic allergy symptoms like itchy eyes and a runny nose, or Covid-19 symptoms like fatigue, dry cough, body pain, shortness of breath, and fever.
“Typically flu symptoms show up one to four days after infection, whereas with Covid-19, symptoms appear around five days after exposure to the virus,” he said.
The Health Ministry has also warned of dusty weather during this week.
According to the Meteorological Department, the next few days will be cold, dusty and windy, with significant temperature drops. Those suffering from allergies and asthma, particularly children and the elderly, have been advised not to step outside.
“Keep yourself warm, and wash your face frequently with clean water, especially after stepping outdoors or getting exposed to dust,” the ministry said.
Medics also advised people to follow a healthy diet and drink warm fluids, and to seek medical attention if their symptoms persisted.
Meanwhile, at least some pharmacies in Bahrain reported a rise in demand for nebulisers, used to deliver high doses of asthma relief medication in an emergency.
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