Multiple ‘flurona’ cases emerge in Victoria as elderly woman dies

A woman in her 90s has died after contracting both the flu and Covid, as multiple “flurona” cases emerge in Victoria.

An elderly woman has died after contracting Covid and the flu at the same time as multiple “flurona” cases emerge in Victoria.

The Herald Sun understands there have been six cases of influenza and Covid this year as of Wednesday.

This included a woman in her 90s who was not vaccinated for Covid and died in mid-January.

All other cases, aged between 18 and 64, were vaccinated for Covid.

Two of the co-infections occurred in January while four occurred in March.

A Department of Health spokesperson urged Victorians to get their flu shot and Covid vaccine.

“By getting vaccinated against both highly contagious infections, you’re not only protecting yourself and those around you, but you’re also helping to ease pressure on our health system,” the spokesperson said.

“Vaccinations play a critical role in protecting people and reducing the severity of illness and we’re urging all Victorians to get their jabs, especially as we’re heading into cooler months.”

This comes as Victorians continue to remain confused about the differences between the two viruses as both have similar symptoms including a fever, sore throat, cough, chills and body aches.

Although the influenza season is expected to hit harder this year than previous years, according to the Department of Health, Covid is more severe.

Globally, about 2 to 4 per cent of people reported to be infected with coronavirus have died.

In comparison, less than 1 per cent of those infected die of the flu.

“Many people have built up immunity to seasonal flu strains, but Covid is a new virus and no one has developed immunity before being exposed, making everyone susceptible to infection,” a spokesperson said.

“Research is underway to investigate how long immunity lasts for people who have recovered from Covid symptoms.”

What is “flurona”?

“Flurona” is when a person has been diagnosed with the flu and Covid at the same time.

What is the difference between the flu and Covid?

Covid is caused by a new coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2 while the flu is caused by the influenza virus.

How long do symptoms appear after exposure?

Covid symptoms appear one to 14 days after exposure, while flu symptoms appear about one to four days after exposure.

How do I check if I have the flu or Covid?

A doctor can diagnose the flu by checking your symptoms, swabbing your nose and throat or taking a blood sample.

To check whether you have tested positive for Covid, a rapid antigen test or a PCR test can be taken.

How do I protect myself against the flu and Covid?

You can be protected against the flu and Covid by receiving a vaccination for each virus.

The flu shot is available at your local GP or accredited pharmacy.

You can receive your Covid vaccine at a state vaccination centre, local GP or pharmacy.

It’s recommended to wash your hands regularly, keep at least 1.5m between yourself and others and wear a mask when required.

Does the Covid vaccine provide protection against the flu?

The Covid vaccine doesn’t protect against the flu so it’s important to have your annual influenza shot.

Yearly flu immunisation is recommended for people above the age of six months.

According to the Department of Health, the flu vaccine and the Covid vaccine can be received on the same day.

Originally published as Multiple ‘flurona’ cases emerge in Victoria as elderly woman dies