UNDATED — There is a difference between the coronavirus and the flu.

Health experts, like Dr. Syra Madad, a special pathogens expert at New York City Health, said COVID-19 is a brand new virus that spreads much quicker than seasonal influenza.

“In fact its about 10 times more virulent than seasonal flu,” she said. Madad said it’s important to take extra precautions while trying to slow the spread of coronavirus.

“Whether it is somebody you come into contact with or touching door handles or something that’s a high touch surface,” she said. “We want to make sure we are applying everyday measures.”

Every day measures like social distancing, wiping down high-touch-surfaces and washing your hands in order to reduce the risk of catching the illness.

Both COVID-19 and the flu can be transmitted through water droplets in coughs or sneezes. However, tiny particles of COVID-19 may linger longer in the air even after the infected person leaves the room. It can also linger on different types of surfaces.

“Whether it’s wood or metal or fabric,” said Madad. “It depends on not just the surface but also the humidity and temperature.”

While many different strains can cause the flu, only one virus causes COVID-19. Many medications have already been proven to treat flu symptoms, but testing continues to find treatment for this coronavirus.

A COVID-19 vaccine is still in the process of being developed.

 

Cover Image by Alexey Hulsov from Pixabay