Symptoms explained: How to recognize which disease you have

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Corona is on the rise again in Austria! According to Hans-Peter Hutter from the Department of Epidemiology at the Medical University of Vienna, the “XEC” Omikron sub-variant is currently predominant and being detected more frequently. According to data from the Austrian Health Insurance Fund (ÖGK), 14,160 coronavirus cases have been recorded.

Interpreting symptoms correctly

The symptoms of the “XEC” variant are very similar to those of the previous variants. Those affected report fever, cough, cold, headache, and aching limbs on the internet, with one “new” symptom in particular: heartburn.

According to Hutter, however, whether you have this or that viral illness is not at all important. It is much more important to stay at home if you feel ill. On the one hand, you should take care of yourself, but on the other hand, it’s also about protecting others. You should make sure that you don’t overexert yourself and infect others.

Protect at-risk groups

“If you have a cough or cold, you are always a potential source of infection for others – regardless of whether you have coronavirus or influenza.” High-risk patients, in particular, should never be exposed to an unnecessary health risk. Incidentally, coronavirus tests at the GP are still free of charge for this group of people.

“The symptoms of flu and coronavirus can be very similar at the moment,” says Hutter, ”it’s best to take a test to be sure.” The tests in the pharmacy are meaningful—a check-up is always a good idea. “But if you have acute symptoms, you should stay home.”

Hutter also endorsed the coronavirus vaccination “because it offers a protective function and is specifically designed for risk groups.” An influenza vaccination is also recommended, and both can be administered at the same time without any problems.

Do not panic

“The important thing is to take every illness seriously and not panic,” says Hutter. The most important thing is to behave sensibly and responsibly—toward yourself and others.