Dr. Qobad Moradi, head of the Infectious Diseases Management Center at the Ministry of Health, examined the symptoms and current status of cold and influenza diseases and emphasized the importance of adhering to health protocols. He stated that the symptoms of cold and COVID-19 are very similar, but colds are usually milder.
Symptoms of Diseases and the Importance of Diagnosis
Moradi pointed out the common symptoms of colds, adding: "This illness is mostly accompanied by a runny nose, sneezing, and sometimes a sore throat. In contrast, influenza usually presents with a sudden onset of fever, body aches, and cough, with high fever and malaise being predominant in influenza." He emphasized that COVID-19 also has respiratory symptoms and is typically accompanied by fever, sore throat, cough, and fatigue. In severe cases, shortness of breath may also occur.
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This specialist doctor also referred to the necessity of accurate diagnosis of diseases, stating: "Although symptoms can be helpful in diagnosis, a definitive diagnosis is not possible based solely on symptoms."
Optimal Time for Influenza Vaccine Injection
Dr. Moradi further mentioned the best time for influenza vaccination, saying: "It is better to administer the influenza vaccine before the onset of the disease season. Usually, September and October are the appropriate times for vaccination. The influenza vaccine is primarily recommended for the elderly and individuals with underlying health conditions."
He also stressed the necessity of adhering to health protocols, stating: "With vaccination, the prevention rate of the disease is 40 to 60 percent. In general, maintaining respiratory hygiene, ensuring proper ventilation, handwashing, and wearing masks in crowded environments are more important for disease prevention." Moradi advised individuals and high-risk groups to strictly follow preventive measures during disease outbreaks.
Current Status of COVID-19 and Influenza
According to Dr. Moradi, in the week ending September 21, the positivity rate for COVID-19 tests was 11.7 percent and for influenza was about 4 percent among those with respiratory infection symptoms. He stated: "In the last three weeks, there has been a slight increase in cases of both diseases, and this trend has also been reported in some countries."
This doctor concluded by noting that with the onset of the cold season and increased presence of people in enclosed spaces, the likelihood of respiratory diseases increasing exists. However, it is not possible to predict the timing and intensity of the next wave with certainty. Moradi also pointed out that most cases of these diseases are mild and improve with rest and appropriate care. He did not recommend the indiscriminate use of antibiotics for viral diseases.
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