Khaberni - Jordanian consultant in clinical and histopathological disease diagnosis, Dr. Hossam Abu Farsakh, warned of the spread of upper respiratory tract infections these days, pointing out that the main causes are influenza, coronavirus, and the respiratory syncytial virus RSV.
Dr. Abu Farsakh, a consultant in disease diagnosis in medical laboratories, confirmed that it is difficult to differentiate between these three viruses based solely on symptoms, which makes it very important to know the common symptoms of each to increase health awareness.
Dr. Abu Farsakh provided a quick summary of the symptoms based on overlapping clinical data, explaining the common symptoms between the three (coronavirus, influenza, RSV) that make distinction difficult and often require a confirmatory test: fever, cough, headache, runny nose, and sore throat. Specific coronavirus symptoms (which may also appear with influenza) include loss of smell, loss of taste, shortness of breath, nausea, and diarrhea. Regarding specific influenza symptoms (which may also appear with coronavirus): severe body aches, fatigue, chills/shivering, and vomiting (in some cases).
As for the symptoms specific to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) (which may also appear with influenza): wheezing, loss of appetite, and sneezing. Dr. Hossam Abu Farsakh concluded his advice by saying: "If you experience any of these symptoms, especially severe symptoms or symptoms of shortness of breath, please consult a doctor and undergo the necessary tests to accurately identify the infection and receive appropriate treatment."
