Orange County Flu & COVID Warning: ‘Twindemic’ Risk
- As fall begins, Orange County health officials are concerned about a possible surge in both influenza and coronavirus cases, possibly creating a "twindemic" that could strain the...
- County leaders are urging residents to continue practicing preventative measures, such as mask-wearing and social distancing, to mitigate the spread of both viruses.
- Andrew Noymer, an epidemiologist at UCI, noted that while both the flu and COVID-19 are respiratory illnesses spread through similar means, COVID-19 poses a greater threat due...
Orange County faces a critical moment as health officials warn of a potential “twindemic,” a combined surge of the flu and COVID-19 cases. Residents must prioritize preventative measures,including mask-wearing,social distancing,and,importantly,getting a flu shot to protect against severe illness. Distinguishing between flu, cold, and COVID-19 symptoms is crucial, as early detection aids in stemming the possible spread.Experts highlight the increased vulnerability due to the absence of a COVID-19 vaccine at the time and the ongoing threat posed by the virus. News Directory 3 reminds everyone that the established countermeasures against COVID-19 also fortify against the flu. With the potential for a COVID-19 vaccine on the horizon, staying informed and proactive is paramount. Discover what’s next for Orange County’s health strategy.
Orange county Braces for Potential Flu and COVID-19 ‘Twindemic’
Updated September 23, 2020
As fall begins, Orange County health officials are concerned about a possible surge in both influenza and
coronavirus cases, possibly creating a “twindemic” that could strain the healthcare system. With cooler
temperatures arriving and pandemic restrictions easing, the risk of increased transmission is a primary
concern.
County leaders are urging residents to continue practicing preventative measures, such as mask-wearing and social
distancing, to mitigate the spread of both viruses. They also strongly advise residents to get their flu shot to
help prevent a severe influenza season.
Andrew Noymer, an epidemiologist at UCI, noted that while both the flu and COVID-19 are respiratory illnesses
spread through similar means, COVID-19 poses a greater threat due to it’s novelty.He added that measures taken
against COVID-19, like masking and handwashing, also help prevent the flu.
A significant challenge lies in differentiating between the symptoms of COVID-19,the flu,and the common cold.
Kaiser Permanente sent a video to its Orange County members explaining the subtle differences, noting that mild
cases of coronavirus might go undetected if mistaken for the flu. COVID-19 symptoms include fever, cough, and
shortness of breath, while the flu presents with sudden fever, cough, sore throat, and body aches. Colds typically
develop slowly with a runny nose and sore throat.
Noymer pointed out the severity of COVID-19, stating that while the flu kills about 60,000 people annually
nationwide, COVID-19 had already killed 200,000 in the U.S. before the year’s end. Public health data indicates
that influenza and pneumonia have caused an average of 576 deaths per year in Orange County since 2017, while
COVID-19 has claimed over 1,100 lives since March.
Health experts emphasize that the population is more vulnerable to COVID-19 because of the lack of a vaccine,
unlike the flu,for which vaccines are readily available. The ongoing spread of coronavirus, coupled with
reopened businesses and schools, could trigger a second wave of cases.
What’s next
With the potential availability of a COVID-19 vaccine in limited supply by December, according to the CDC,
Orange County health officials continue to stress the importance of preventative measures and widespread flu
vaccinations to mitigate the impact of a possible “twindemic.”