Amidst this COVID-19 pandemic, there are still other diseases that are spreading, like influenza and pneumonia. This can be forgotten due to all the attention our world has put on this novel coronavirus. Influenza is a very similar disease to coronavirus. Flu symptoms include a fever, cough, running nose, body aches, and fatigue. People who are at risk for this infection include those who are above the age of 65, children under the age of 2, and those who are immunocompromised. This disease has been overlooked this particular year. This flu season has been different than most as it started very early this year. Influenza B was the main flu strain that was circulating back in December, however in March, Influenza A made an appearance.
Pneumonia is a lung infection which is caused by bacteria or other viruses. When bacteria get into the lung tissue, an inflammatory response is triggered causing an increase in mucous production. Air sacs in the lungs get inflamed and it can make it very difficult to breath. This disease can result from the flu. Similar to the flu, children under 5, adults over the age of 65, and those who are immunocompromised are most at risk of disease. Pneumonia can be deadly and requires medical attention.
I think we have forgotten how many people the flu kills every year. It is still important to pay attention and protect ourselves from diseases outside of COVID-19. This particular year, I think people are not thinking about other illnesses outside of coronavirus which is scary. When the flu and pneumonia are severe, they both require hospitalization. However, with all the focus on coronavirus, people who are suffering from these diseases are not getting the medical intention they need. This is causing an increase in flu deaths this year. It isn’t necessarily our fault though due to all the media attention on COVID-19. There is an array of diseases that circulate our world that we need to be aware of outside of coronavirus!
Carly's Blog 