The impact of influenza A/B has been atypical since the start of the COVID pandemic. Several variables can contribute to this phenomenon including:
- the effectiveness of the flu vaccines
- the percentage of people who got vaccinated
- the immune status of the population
- the characteristics of the virus in circulation during the season
- the probability of concurrent infection with different viruses in circulation, including COVID
Between 2010-2020, CDC annual estimates for Influenza Deaths, Hospitalizations, and Illnesses are as below:
Source: https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/burden/index.html
However, as of this week, there have been approximately 2 million cases of the flu, 20,000 flu hospitalizations, and only 1,200 deaths. This reality could be due to the crowding out phenomenon driven by both the Delta and Omicron variants. Secondarily, people who present with flu-like symptoms are most likely being tested for COVID exclusively and not for the flu virus. Further, current mitigation measures against COVID have had a protective effect against the seasonal flu. Lastly, early anecdotal data has shown that the probability of concurrent flu and COVID infection is approximately 10-15%.
Within Virginia, the intensity level across the state has been Minimal to Moderate with ZERO outbreaks:
Source: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/content/uploads/sites/3/2019/12/Weekly-Influenza-Activity-Report.pdf
Influenza and COVID-19 are both very contagious respiratory viruses that can spread from person to person who are in close contact. The mechanism of spread is mainly from small and large respiratory particles that are expelled when a person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
The symptoms produced by these viruses are very similar and it is impossible to discern the cause of illness based on symptoms. Thus, it is extremely important that a patient get tested for both viruses to confirm a diagnosis and to identify if he or she is infected with both Influenza and COVID viruses.
At American Testing Solutions, we provide you with the highest quality and fastest turnaround time for both Antigen and Reverse-Transcriptase PCR tests. We offer testing for both COVID and Influenza viruses to determine the cause of your symptoms and to confirm a diagnosis. Our reliable same-day results will allow you to make informed decisions and keep your family, friends, colleagues and workforce safe.
We are currently running a SPECIAL on COVID Antigen testing as well as providing an AFFORDABLE package testing for both COVID and Influenza.
Schedule your appointment today!