The Uninvited Guest of Autumn, Influenza! How Does it Differ from COVID-19? 🤧

Hello! 🍁

Autumn has deepened, and along with the colorful foliage, threats to our health are approaching. These are respiratory viruses. This news really sparked my interest. We've become accustomed to COVID-19, which disrupted our lives in 2020, but now influenza is reportedly causing a strong wave in Spain.

Influenza, Has it Returned This Fiercely? 😱

Recent news from Spain reports an explosive increase in confirmed influenza cases. The situation is particularly severe in northern Spain. In the Vizcaya region, influenza cases this year have surged nearly five times compared to last year! 🤯 According to a '20minutos' article on October 26, 2025, the Basque health authorities reported 506 influenza cases last week alone, a very high number compared to 166 cases during the same period last year. It's a truly concerning situation.

What's the Difference Between Influenza and COVID-19? 🤔

Sudden cough, runny nose, fever… Could I have caught the flu? Or is it COVID-19? Many people are likely confused. Fortunately, experts offer several clues to help distinguish the symptoms of these two viruses. Of course, the most important thing is to get an accurate diagnosis from a medical professional, but it's helpful to know in advance!

• Influenza: Generally, sudden high fever, chills, muscle aches, headache, and fatigue are the main symptoms. Cough or runny nose may also occur, but loss of smell or taste is usually less pronounced compared to COVID-19.
• COVID-19: Fever, cough, and fatigue are similar to influenza, but a wider range of symptoms can appear, including loss of smell and taste, difficulty breathing, diarrhea, and skin rashes. Symptoms can also develop gradually.

Of course, these symptoms can vary from person to person, and some symptoms may overlap. Therefore, if you suspect you have symptoms, it's essential to visit a hospital for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. 👍

How to Stay Healthy This Autumn? 💪

The battle against viruses is not over. But with a little more attention, we can have a healthy autumn. A few simple habits can protect ourselves and those around us.

1. Vaccination: The flu vaccine is one of the most effective ways to protect yourself from influenza viruses. If you haven't been vaccinated yet, visit your doctor promptly.
2. Thorough Personal Hygiene: Handwashing is the foundation of preventing all infectious diseases. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 30 seconds, and always wash your hands after going out. Carrying hand sanitizer is also a good practice.
3. Wearing a Mask: Consider wearing a mask in crowded places or poorly ventilated indoor spaces. It helps prevent the transmission of viruses to others, especially if you have respiratory symptoms.
4. Healthy Lifestyle Habits: Sufficient sleep, a balanced diet, and regular exercise boost immunity and enhance resistance to viruses. 🍎🏃‍♀️😴
5. Rest When Sick: If you develop symptoms, it's crucial to rest at home without overexerting yourself. This is the best way not only for your recovery but also to prevent spreading the virus to others.

Let's Overcome This Together! 😊

This is a time when both COVID-19 and influenza, two respiratory viruses, are rampant. It might be a bit unsettling and worrying, but if we are considerate of each other and adhere to basic preventive measures, we can certainly overcome this period healthily. We always support your health and safety! ❤️

Do you have any concerns about flu or COVID-19 symptoms? Please share them in the comments anytime. It would be great to talk together and be a source of strength for each other.