COVID is Not the Flu:
Understanding the True Risks in 2024 9 October 2024, Tbilisi, Georgia Irina Datashvili, Sheniekimi.ge
Featuring insights from Professor Giorgi Pkhakadze, Chair of the Public Health Institute of Georgia As the world moves through 2024, one thing remains clear:
COVID-19 is not the flu. Despite efforts by some in the medical field to downplay the severity of COVID-19 by comparing it to seasonal influenza, the data shows that COVID-19 remains a far more dangerous virus, both in terms of its immediate effects and long-term consequences.
1. The Data: COVID vs. Flu The numbers are staggering. In Denmark, between May 2022 and June 2024, COVID-19 caused 24,687 hospitalizations and 2,393 deaths, while influenza accounted for 8,682 hospitalizations and 522 deaths.
This stark contrast shows that COVID-19 is responsible for almost three times as many hospitalizations and over four times the deaths as influenza during the same period.
In the United States, August 2024 saw COVID-19 claim 5,032 lives, compared to 128 deaths from influenza. These figures are a reminder that the virus continues to pose a serious threat, even as vaccines and treatments have become widely available.
2. The Georgian Context:
COVID is Not the Flu During the pandemic, some healthcare professionals in Georgia, lacking a background in public health, inaccurately labeled COVID-19 as “just another flu.”
This miscommunication caused confusion and led to public complacency at a time when strong, accurate public health messaging was most needed.
Professor Giorgi Pkhakadze, Chair of the Public Health Institute of Georgia, was a vocal critic of these misleading comparisons.
“It was crucial for the public to understand that COVID-19 is far more dangerous than the flu,” said Professor Pkhakadze.
“This virus doesn’t just target the respiratory system—it affects multiple organs, and its long-term effects can be debilitating. We needed clear, science-based communication to protect the public.”
3. The Complexity of Long
COVID One of the most significant differences between COVID-19 and the flu is the long-term impact of the virus.
While influenza rarely causes long-term symptoms, COVID-19 can lead to long COVID, a condition characterized by persistent fatigue, brain fog, respiratory issues, and even cardiovascular complications that can last for months or years.
Professor Pkhakadze emphasized this point, noting, “Long COVID is a multi-system condition that we are still learning about. Unlike the flu, COVID-19 leaves behind a trail of chronic health issues that can significantly impact people’s quality of life. It’s critical that we do not underestimate this aspect of the disease.”
4. A Call for Continued Public Health Vigilance
Despite the availability of vaccines and treatments, COVID-19 continues to mutate, leading to new variants that can partially evade immunity.
As we move into the fall and winter months, there is a heightened risk of another wave of infections, particularly as people spend more time indoors.
Professor Pkhakadze recommended ongoing protective measures, especially for vulnerable populations.
“We cannot afford to be complacent,” he said. “Vaccination is still one of our strongest tools, but we must also continue to promote mask-wearing in high-risk environments and improve ventilation in public spaces.”
5. Lessons for the Future
The comparison between COVID-19 and the flu has proven not only inaccurate but also harmful to public health efforts. In hindsight, the misleading narrative delayed necessary protective measures and contributed to the virus’s spread.
Reflecting on the lessons of the pandemic, Professor Pkhakadze shared this final recommendation:
“We must learn from our mistakes. Going forward, it is essential to listen to public health experts and base our strategies on data and science. Misinformation has no place in a pandemic. The quicker we act on accurate information, the more lives we can save.”
In 2024, the data has confirmed that COVID-19 is far more dangerous than the flu. Misleading comparisons during the pandemic caused confusion and risked lives.
Thanks to the advocacy of experts like Professor Giorgi Pkhakadze, the public is better informed, but the work is far from over. As we prepare for future waves, it is crucial to continue relying on science and public health expertise to guide our actions.
მასალის გამოყენების პირობები
