At this time of year, we are in the so-called flu season. It is mostly a disease caused by the Influenza virus, but many others can also be implicated. The symptoms caused by the various infections are very similar and, for this reason, it is very difficult to distinguish them without resorting to laboratory tests.
The success of the vaccination campaigns for the SARS Cov-2 infection had a significant impact on the profile of respiratory infections during this past year. This winter there is a greater circulation of other viruses that cause respiratory infection, namely Influenzavirus A and B, Respiratory Syncytial Virus, Respiratory Adenovirus, Rhinovirus, Parainfluenzavirus, Respiratory Enterovirus and Metapneumovirus, according to data from the Vigilância Epidemiológica da Gripe (Epidemiological Surveillance of Influenza).
The Laboratório Dr. Joaquim Chaves provides a molecular test, which allows the simultaneous screening of 19 different types of respiratory viral infection agents, by collecting a simple sample taken from the nose or throat.
If you present symptoms such as cough, fever, cold, headaches or stuffy nose, you can perform a PCR test for screening and correct identification of the virus causing the infection, so that the most appropriate treatment for your case can be recommended. To do so, simply go to a Joaquim Chaves Saúde collection point and request that this test be carried out.
The results will always be available on the working day following the sample collection. It is a PCR molecular panel with very high specificity and sensitivity, allowing for a rigorous and precise diagnosis.
If you want to seek medical advice, the Joaquim Chaves Saúde Group also provides General and Family Medicine, Pneumology and Pediatrics consultations in its medical clinics to monitor these cases.