Darrick Robles After the lockdown in spring, the infection curve in Germany initially remained flat – until the end of the summer. Now that it’s getting colder, the coronavirus is spreading more rapidly again. The number of new infections is increasing, especially in the big cities. Also, we’re already in the middle of flu season. This is the first time we can expect a winter in which both diseases occur. We answer the most important questions about COVID-19 and flu .
Which is more dangerous: Corona or the flu?
At first glance, the two infectious diseases have a lot in common. Both influenza viruses and Sars-CoV-2 are mainly transmitted by droplets that we release when we speak, sneeze or cough, for example. Both pathogens cause respiratory diseases, which can take very different courses: There are symptom-free and mild, but also very severe and fatal courses of the disease.
Hospital studies show that COVID-19 is often more severe than the flu . The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) compared data from COVID patients with that of past flu waves:
- 22% of the corona sufferers had to be artificially ventilated (flu sufferers: 14%)
- People with COVID spent an average of 10 days on ventilators (flu people: 4 days)
- 21% of the corona patients in the hospital have died (flu: 12%)
One thing is certain: we must not take Corona or the flu lightly. Even with an asymptomatic course, we can infect others and put their lives in danger. However, there are vaccines against influenza viruses, while there are not yet any against Sars-CoV-2.
How long is the flu season?
Influenza viruses can spread best at low temperatures and in dry air – i.e. when we are with other people in heated and poorly ventilated rooms. The flu season runs from early October to mid-May. Influenza waves, i.e. times with increased numbers of infections, usually reach their peak in January. Anyone wishing to be vaccinated should do so by mid-December.
Can I get infected with influenza and coronavirus at the same time?
Yes. You may become infected with several respiratory viruses at the same time – in parallel or in quick succession. Such a double infection with influenza and corona viruses can take very different courses. A previously published study from Great Britain concluded that people suffering from the flu are less likely to become infected with Sars-CoV-2. In the case of a double infection, however, the patients had a severe course much more often than those who only had the flu or COVID-19.
Who should get the flu vaccine?
The Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends influenza vaccination especially for people who are at high risk of developing a serious illness or who have a lot of contact with risk groups at work :
- all over 60
- Pregnant women from the 28th week
- People with pre-existing conditions such as asthma , diabetes , HIV, cardiovascular, kidney or liver diseases and anyone living with them in the same household
- People who live or work in retirement or nursing homes
- medical staff
Do we have enough flu vaccine this year?
Germany has 26 million doses of influenza vaccine available for the 2020/2021 flu season. That’s 6 million doses more than in previous years and more than ever before. However, this amount is not enough to vaccinate everyone. That is why priority is given to those who belong to the risk groups or work in the medical field.
How else can I protect myself?
Aside from getting vaccinated, there are many things you can do to protect yourself and others from infection . The transmission path is the same for corona and influenza viruses. That is why the well-known COVID-19 precautionary measures also apply against flu :
- Keep your distance: Whenever possible, keep at least 1.5 m distance from others when you are outdoors.
- Observe hygiene: Wash your hands regularly for at least 20 seconds. If you have to cough or sneeze, use a handkerchief or the crook of your arm.
- Wear an everyday mask : Not only in the supermarket, bus and train – you should wear a mouth and nose cover wherever it gets tight.
- Ventilate rooms : Do you stay in closed rooms with others? Then you should ventilate regularly for a few minutes.
In addition to the currently applicable contact restrictions, you can also do something yourself to avoid infections. Take your friends out for a walk instead of at the coffee shop. When the weather is nice, take the bike again. Exercise at home instead of going to the gym at peak times.
Incidentally, the RKI found that the extensive ban on contacts in March not only flattened the COVID-19 curve. The flu wave ended earlier and the number of respiratory diseases in general fell abruptly. If we continue to follow the hygiene rules, this could also have an impact on the coming flu season.
How do I know if I have COVID-19 or the flu?
Typical for the flu : you suddenly have a high fever and suddenly feel very ill . With COVID-19, the feeling of illness comes on gradually and increases over several days. If you ca n’t taste or smell anything anymore , that’s a pretty sure sign of Corona.
If you have symptoms such as fever , cough or loss of taste, you can use our COVID-19 symptom check as a first orientation – or get a medical assessment via the app . With the video consultation, you avoid an additional risk of infection and can get advice on whether you should do a PCR test .
Do you have further questions about flu and COVID-19? The FAQ page of the Robert Koch Institute goes into detail about both diseases. You can find more reliable information on the WHO website .
