Infections brought about by Influenza and coronavirus disease (COVID-19) variants Omicron and Delta have no distinct symptoms, the Department of Health (DOH) said on Tuesday, Jan. 4.
In a statement, DOH cited the World Health Organization (WHO) who said that the usual COVID-19 symptoms are cough, fever, sore throat, fatigue, loss of taste and/or smell, headache, sore throat, body pain, rashes, and conjunctivitis.
"These symptoms are generally similar for COVID-19 infection - whether Delta or Omicron variant, or even with regular flu," DOH said.
"It is difficult to tell by symptoms alone what caused your infection," it added.
DOH also listed the following reminders in interpreting test results:
- Antigen tests when used for symptomatic patients is fairly accurate. However, it is not as reliable if used for non-symptomatic, so a follow-up RT-PCR may be needed to confirm presence or absence of infection.
- RT-PCR test may be taken already if with symptoms. However, if no symptoms, wait until 5th day of exposure before testing to increase reliability of results.
It also said that while waiting for test results, one should be isolated or even during the first onset of any symptom. DOH added that if someone has been exposed to a suspect, probable, or confirmed COVID-19 case, he or she must automatically undergo quarantine for seven days, if vaccinated and 14 days, if not vaccinated.
DOH reminded the public to be mindful of the information being shared and that misinformation can mean life or death while accurate and timely information saves lives.