Flurona?

February 2, 2022

Lately, you may have been hearing about something called "flurona". 

Rest assured, it's not a new disease or a new variant. Even so, it's something you should take seriously.

Flurona is a term coined to describe when someone is infected with both influenza and COVID-19 at the same time.

While there haven't been many reported cases of co-infection, we may begin to see more, as flu season reaches a peak in February, according to the Mayo Clinic. 

Both the flu and COVID-19 are upper-respiratory illnesses that share many of the same symptoms, such as a lever. cough, shortness of breath and fatigue, according to the CDC. Fortunately. there are many ways you can protect yourself from these viruses.

First and foremost, get vaccinated against both diseases. While the number of people vaccinated against COVID-19 continues to Increase. fewer people have gotten vaccinated against flu this year. compared with past years, according to the CDC. But not getting vaccinated leaves you at greater risk of sickness. The CDC recommends the flu vaccine for everyone ages 6 months and older and the COVID-19 vaccine for those ages 5 and older. II also recommends COVID-19 booster shots for everyone 12 and older who is fully vaccinated and eligible.

Take every day precautions. This includes washing your hands frequently. cleaning surfaces that could be contaminated and keeping your hands away from your face and eyes. 

Wear a mask. That same KN95 mask that protects you from the Omicron variant will also help keep you sale from the flu.

Just as you layer up clothing to keep warm, layer up your protections to keep safe this winter!

Keep it here for more helpful tips from SEPTA Medical Director Dr. E [aka Dr. Jeffrey Erinoff]!!