In everyday language, when someone has respiratory symptoms such as coughing, a runny nose, sore throat, or possibly fever, we often simply say, “I have the flu.” But in reality, what causes what we call the flu?
The term “flu”, as commonly used by the public, is more of a general way to refer to the presence of respiratory symptoms. These symptoms can be caused by different types of viruses. Among the most common are influenza, parainfluenza, RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus), rhinovirus, and also COVID-19. This is the reason why a person can experience “the flu” more than once in the same year. Throughout the year, different respiratory viruses circulate in the community, and each of them can cause similar symptoms.
When asked whether COVID still exists, the answer is yes.
COVID is still present and continues to cause flu-like symptoms in people who come into contact with the virus, just like other respiratory viruses. At present, COVID is considered another respiratory virus within the group that causes “flu-like” symptoms. For that reason, COVID testing is no longer performed as routinely as before and is only done based on specific indications. However, through DVG’s surveillance system that monitors diseases circulating in Aruba, the presence of COVID continues to be detected.
The recommendation for people in risk groups, such as adults aged 60 years and older and those with underlying health conditions, remains the same. They are advised to protect themselves against influenza and COVID through vaccination. Consult your family doctor if you have questions, as these viruses continue to cause hospitalizations and serious complications, especially among people with fragile health.