Symptoms of the new COVID-19 strain may resemble the flu – WHO

The symptoms of the new COVID-19 strain, PJ.2.1, can resemble those of a common cold or the flu; therefore, testing is necessary. This was stated to RIA Novosti by the World Health Organization (WHO).

The organization noted that it is impossible to determine with certainty which specific respiratory virus has caused an infection based solely on symptoms.

"Symptoms of COVID-19, the flu, and other respiratory infections can overlap. Consequently, it is impossible to confidently identify the specific respiratory virus responsible for an infection based on symptoms alone," the WHO told the agency. The organization also noted that in cases where identifying the cause of an illness could influence treatment strategies or public health decision-making, testing might become necessary.

Earlier, the WHO’s Russian office informed the agency that the risk of the spread of a new coronavirus strain—PJ.2.1—is increasing globally.