Flu and COVID-19: Vigilance During This Transition Period

As new variants of COVID-19 circulate in Europe, Mauritian health authorities are urging caution. Dr. Shameem Jaumdally emphasizes that although COVID-19 has become endemic, vulnerable individuals still face risks. Dr. Fazil Khodabocus stresses that precautions remain crucial.

According to virologist Dr. Shameem Jaumdally, regardless of the emerging variant or subvariant of COVID-19, the overall situation remains unchanged. "We are now in a phase of endemicity, and the majority of people have contracted the virus at least once, providing them with some immune protection against severe forms," he explains.

However, certain groups remain vulnerable, particularly those suffering from severe illnesses such as cancer or organ failures—affecting the kidneys, liver, heart, or brain. Individuals over 70 years old are also at higher risk due to a weakened immune system.

Symptoms

Recent symptoms reported include persistent cough, severe sore throat, fever, loss of appetite, body aches, headaches, and extreme fatigue. Dr. Jaumdally acknowledges that distinguishing whether these symptoms are related to flu, COVID-19, or other respiratory infections like adenovirus or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is challenging. "Testing is no longer conducted as it used to be," he notes.

Given the season, he suggests these symptoms may be more closely associated with rhinovirus or adenovirus, which usually peak during seasonal transitions. He also points out that cases of gastroenteritis may rise during this period, causing vomiting and diarrhea.

The virologist reminds us that COVID-19 presents more specific symptoms than other viral respiratory infections like flu or RSV. However, he adds that in respiratory medical research, "COVID-19 is no longer a concern." In South Africa, some institutes continue sentinel surveillance to identify circulating viruses through sequencing, including COVID-19, flu, RSV, adenovirus, and other pathogens. "It’s essential to maintain this vigilance to understand the evolution of these viruses," he insists.

COVID-19

Regarding the circulation of the "Frankenstein" variant, which is rising in Europe, Dr. Jaumdally believes it should not pose a major problem except for vulnerable individuals. He urges people to put the fear of COVID-19 into perspective, stating that in Mauritius, the population should be more concerned about vector-borne diseases like dengue or chikungunya, which have more troublesome symptoms.
In France, media reports indicate that COVID-19 seems to be resurging. Authorities plan a vaccination campaign starting October 14, in conjunction with the flu vaccine. An increase in acute respiratory infections has also been observed there.

Dr. Fazil Khodabocus, interim director of health services, aims to reassure the public. "There is no need for concern, but vigilance is necessary." He reports that from September 22 to 28, there were 5,433 cases of respiratory infections recorded in public hospitals, compared to 5,693 the previous week and 5,653 from September 8 to 14. "Even though this reflects a slight decrease, these figures are still higher than last year at the same time."

The doctor indicates that multiple viruses are currently circulating: flu, rhinovirus, adenovirus, A(H1N2), A(H3N2), B, and COVID-19. Sequencing analyses conducted in Mauritius have not detected the "Frankenstein" or "Nimbus" variants. "There’s nothing alarming at this stage," he states. He recommends caution as the seasons change.

Dr. Khodabocus reminds everyone that the flu vaccine is still available and that it’s not too late to get vaccinated. He also stresses the need for sick individuals to stay home to rest and avoid spreading illness to others. "Working while sick could worsen the situation and prolong symptoms."