“Dengue and COVID can coexist” - Chest Physician

Even though the COVID-19 virus has taken over the lives of people, there could be instances when symptoms for dengue and /or seasonal influenza could mimic COVID-19. In Sri Lanka there are two peaks of seasonal influenza but there has been a significant surge in dengue cases. According to statistics, over 21,000 individuals have been diagnosed with dengue just for this year, seven deaths have been reported so far in Sri Lanka. 

“There hasn’t been a significant amount of influenza symptoms infections since people have been wearing masks,” opined Dr. Neranjan Dissanayake, Consultant Chest Physician, Teaching Hospital and District Chest Clinic, Ratnapura. “There is also a reduction in investigating for influenza. When a person tests positive for COVID we don’t send the flu swab. But there has been a reduction in respiratory infections during the lockdown. Other viral infections have also reduced but this is my postulation. But there could be an actual reduction due to protection measures that have been implemented. Another reason is that schools have closed. Children are carriers of the influenza virus.” said Dr. Dissanayake.

However, Dr. Dissanayake said that the situation is different when it comes to dengue. “During the last two months there were three admissions with dengue and COVID. They were all young people as well. So it is possible for dengue and COVID to coexist. On the other hand, dengue can mimic COVID as it would similar symptoms to COVID including loss of appetite, loss of smell and so on. If a person gets dengue they will be more ill since blood pressure will go down and this was seen in young people.” the doctor concluded.