High fever, diarrhoea, vomiting and abdominal pain… Many symptoms afflict the Lebanese today and make them confused, is it Corona or another virus? Many cases infected with viruses have recently spread, and many people are finding it difficult today to conduct an examination to ensure that they are not infected with the Corona virus or to see a doctor as a result of the deteriorating economic situation among a large segment of the Lebanese.
Corona symptoms are similar to many viruses, and it can be difficult to diagnose cases without basic tests. Lebanon is witnessing a rise in #corona cases, and the number of people infected with corona exceeds what is announced daily. On the other hand, medical clinics and hospitals are witnessing other viruses in children whose symptoms are similar to #corona.
Respiratory viruses are among the most common types of viruses; Because of the ease of transmission, as it is transmitted by droplets from the infected person, or through surfaces laden with the virus. Most children with viral infections get better without treatment, but some cases may need special treatment to avoid any complications from this infection.
The Head of the Pediatric Department at the Medical Center of the Lebanese American University at Rizk Hospital, Dr. Gerard Wakim, explains to “Al-Nahar” about these viruses, their characteristics and the most important symptoms by saying, “The symptoms of existing viruses are similar to the Corona virus, but with that, each virus has its own characteristics and symptoms that distinguish it from others.
To begin with, the most common symptoms of COVID-19 today include:
* Sore throat
* High temperature
* Cough
* Abdominal pain
* Diarrhea
These symptoms disappear after two to three weeks completely, and the child is not given any treatment except fever-reducing drugs such as Bandol or Ibuprofen.
While the child, when infected with the adenovirus, or what is known as the adenovirus, suffers from diarrhea and vomiting for two to three days. This virus is transmitted through the air or through saliva and secretions. Wakim stresses “the importance of drinking fluids and water to compensate for the deficiency and focusing on salty foods or increasing salt in food such as pasta, salty rice, carrots, potatoes… It is important to stay away or avoid eating fruits that increase diarrhea and replace them with others that help constipation, such as bananas.” .
As for viruses caused by bacteria such as salmonella, shigella or parasites, which are often the result of eating contaminated food, it leads to a rise in temperature, abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhea, and the appearance of mucus and blood in the stool… The duration of symptoms ranges between 5 to 10 days. Often the child does not need treatment, but in some cases we may have to prescribe an antibiotic to eliminate bacterial and parasitic infections.
Wakim advises that if diarrhea persists for three days, a stool culture test should be performed to ensure the presence of bacteria and know their type. Therefore, it is not necessary to be careless and to monitor the child well.