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The characteristic symptoms that occur with the COVID-19 coronavirus infection can also appear individually in the case of other diseases, including strep throat. Therefore, we asked the question of dr hab. n. med. Tomasz Dzieśćtkowski, a virologist from the Medical University of Warsaw, what he sees similarities between COVID-19 and angina.
The characteristic symptoms of the COVID-19 coronavirus are dry cough, shortness of breath and high fever (above 38 degrees Celsius). There may also be muscle aches, headache, anosmia (loss of smell) or general weakness in the body. The COVID-19 coronavirus is spread by airborne droplets, and it takes about two weeks to hatch, but the first symptoms appear about the fifth day after infection.
- Also learn: How does the coronavirus attack the body?
Symptoms suggestive of strep throat
At the beginning, it is worth emphasizing that angina, i.e. purulent inflammation of the palatine tonsils and the mucous membranes of the throat, is caused not only by streptococci, staphylococci, influenza and pneumococci, but also by viruses and fungi. It is an infectious disease, the first symptoms of which, indicating the growth of microorganisms, are a severe sore throat and enlarged lymph nodes.
- Find out more: Could I be infected with the coronavirus?
As angina develops, a high fever and accompanying chills appear. Coughing may also be present. Angina is diagnosed by a red throat and swollen tonsils. There are not always white raids, which is also worth mentioning.
What are the Similarities Between COVID-19 and Angina?
What are the Similarities Between COVID-19 and Angina? Dr hab. n. med. Tomasz Dziecistkowski not only showed similarities, but above all differences that are fundamental. COVID-19 is a viral disease, while strep throat is mostly streptococcal angina, which means a bacterial infection.
- Check also: Coverage of the COVID-19 coronavirus [Map updated]
We are dealing with high temperature in both cases, but with angina at the very beginning there is a severe sore throat, which is not the case with coronavirus infection. COVID-19 is characterized by a dry and ineffective cough. In addition, if the doctor examines the throat of a patient with angina, he will see the characteristic purulent red plugs absent from the coronavirus.
The editorial board recommends the most important articles about the coronavirus:
- What does WHO say about the coronavirus pandemic?
- Why isn’t everyone who has symptoms of coronavirus undergoing testing?
- Co-morbidities – what does this mean?
Have a question about the coronavirus? Send them to the following address: [email protected] You can find a daily updated list of answers HERE: Coronavirus – frequently asked questions and answers
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