DeWitt County is seeing an increase in stomach flu cases, primarily flu type A, along with rising COVID-19 cases, while Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) cases are declining, according to Cuero Regional Hospital’s Dr. Paul Willers.
The symptoms for COVID-19, flu types A and B, and RSV overlap making testing crucial to differentiate them for appropriate treatment, Willers said.
Due to packed examination rooms and appointment difficulties, he suggests patients can call their doctors for lab tests and swabs.
“The flu and RSV (tests) can be done in the office with rapid swabs, but COVID tests must be sent to the hospital lab, where results can be obtained within an hour,” Dr. Willers said.
“Honestly, if you think you have COVID, if you have the flu, if you have a cold, the tests will tell you what you have,” he said.
Home rapid tests, like the FDA-authorized CorDx TyFast 10 Mins Multi-Test kit, are also available on Amazon for about $33.
“One of the major issues we are currently facing is the outbreak of COVID-19 in several local nursing homes. At this stage of the disease, COVID-19 symptoms are very similar to those of the flu. It’s crucial for us to determine the illness the patients have so they can receive appropriate treatment as quickly as possible. These individuals are at a significant risk,” he said.
Dr. Willers advises these steps if you have a cough, runny nose, congestion, or sore throat.
Contact your pediatrician or physician. “Get tested to determine your illness. Discuss with your physician whether you should come in to see them,” he said.
Get rest and hydrate. Most people get over the flu in 3 to 5 to 7 days. It will be symptomatic care of rest and hydration for the majority of healthy individuals who have had symptoms for over 48 hours.
“A significant problem that we run into is dehydration. Healthy people who have a slight drop in kidney function (from dehydration) will recover. If they have underlying kidney disease, it worsens,” Dr. Willers warned.
“Pedialyte, that’s a great electrolyte replacement. It doesn’t have the overwhelming flavors that some Gatorades do, making people nauseous. You can freeze it and eat it as popsicles. Great way to keep kids hydrated,” he added.
Get antivirals. Two antivirals are available and rather expensive. Most insurance companies do not cover them.
Tamiflu (been out longer) 1 capsule twice a day for 5 days for $70 Xofluza single dose pill lasts for entire duration for $300 “If you don't have any major risk factors and if you take it within 48 hours, it may cut that (illness duration) by 24 (hrs.),” Dr. Willers said.
However, more precautions are taken with patients with coexisting diseases such as Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes, and any renal diseases.
“Even after 48 hours, many times we’ll start antibiotics, and most recommendations are to start antivirals to prevent potential complications,” he said.
Lastly, Dr. Willers states that individuals can return to normal activities after being fever-free for 24 hours without medication.
