Amid the nationwide surge in Covid-19 cases, with limited RT-PCR testing, doctors have no option but to hone their acquired expertise in the pandemic in screening patients for the novel coronavirus, amid an increase in patients displaying prolonged flu symptoms—characterized by persistent cough and fatigue—with the drop in temperature.

With one confirmed case of JN.1, the new Covid-19 variant in Maharashtra, and the reporting of 14 new cases on Wednesday, the medical fraternity is on high alert. While this surge is attributed to heightened surveillance, doctors express concern about differentiating Covid patients amid the rise in seasonal infection cases, as reported by IndianExpress.

Distinguishing between Covid-19 and seasonal flu proves challenging due to their similar characteristics. Vigilant doctors are now homing in on distinguishing features such as loss of taste or smell, shortness of breath, and severe fatigue.

'This is a significant concern. We are not actively testing individuals for the new variant. A few patients underwent antigen testing and tested negative, but none have undergone RT-PCR testing,' said Dr Hemlata Arora, Senior Consultant, Internal Medicine, Nanavati Hospital, who, for the past two weeks, has been treating 10-12 patients daily exhibiting symptoms such as sore throat, high-grade fever, and cough.

Dr Anita Mathew, Infectious Disease Specialist at Fortis Hospital explained, 'Unless there is a clear-cut indication such as a drop in oxygen levels or lung involvement, patients with typical flu-like symptoms are not automatically categorized as Covid-19. While there is a possibility, considering most cases are mild, treatment for this category is symptomatic, and there is no need for panic.'

Meanwhile, the prolonged flu is wreaking havoc in the city. If the fever lasts two to three days, the overall illness resolves within about a week. However, if the fever persists for six to seven days, the total duration of illness can extend beyond ten days. In most cases, the recovery is taking place after three weeks, especially among children and elderly who are most vulnerable to contracting the infection.

Doctors suggest taking precautions against seasonal flu by getting vaccinated, practicing good hand hygiene, maintaining physical distance, and wearing masks.