Coronavirus VS Flu: How To Identify The Difference?

Coronavirus VS Flu

The coronavirus and the flu have quite similar symptoms. From runny nose to fever, sore throat, and congested chest, all these symptoms will appear in both, the coronavirus affected patient and a flu sufferer. While it is completely true that both have the potential to cause mild to severe illnesses and the viruses are respiratory in nature. You also have to take note that according to the CDC influenza is caused by flu A and flu B viruses. Whereas the COVID-19 is caused by a new type of flu A virus. This virus is different from the existing viruses that cause seasonal flu. So, how can someone learn whether he has the coronavirus or the flu? Read on to find out.

The Viruses Belong To Two Different Families

Scientifically speaking both the viruses are somewhat similar in nature. The RNA surrounding the viruses have a similar composition. The only difference is that of the outer protein layer causing the immune response. The outer layer has two different pathogens. These pathogens can cause the virus to behave in a particular manner. Perhaps the reason why it is easier to recover from the impact of influenza. 

Also, you have to keep in mind that the appearance of the viruses is very different. Coronavirus appears crown-like under magnification and the proteins on the outer layer interact differently with the cells in your body. In fact, the types of viruses associated with the coronavirus are closely related to the ones causing respiratory infections. So, it is safe to say that COVID-19 has a closer relation to SARS and MERS than influenza. 

We Know A Lot Of Things About Influenza

The coronavirus is new to us, but the Influenza or the flu dates back to 1993. Scientists and researchers have long searched about the virus and they know how it interacts with the human body. Not only this but we all know how the virus works when it affects, and who is more susceptible to its effect. 

Influenza is a seasonal flu and it mostly affects people between the fall and winter season. Only pregnant women, young kids, and older people are more susceptible to this virus. Mainstream doctors are of the view that you can treat influenza with the help of effective treatment plans. Most doctors will provide medicines in order to treat the symptoms of influenza. Although you can treat the mild symptoms by taking rest. The effects of influenza will wear off in 5-7 days and a healthy immune system is quite adept at fighting back. 

In contrast, so far we have heard nothing about the viruses’ seasonal nature. In fact, we have entered the month of May and the cases are constantly rising. So far, the US has 1,527,664 confirmed cases of the virus out of which 346,389 have already recovered. This is to say that there are no seasonal elements here, but people who are at high risk of contracting the virus include elderlies or have underlying medical conditions. 

That said, you also have to keep in mind that scientists are still learning a lot of things about the virus. Every week the medical community learns new things about the coronavirus. Only recently it was found out that loss of taste, smell, and rashes are also major symptoms of the coronavirus. 

The Transferrable Nature Of The Coronavirus

One of the heated topics of discussions about the coronavirus is how fast can the virus spread. The researchers believe that the R-Naught factor decides how many other people can get the coronavirus. For seasonal flu or influenza, the R0 rises from 0.9 to 2.1. Simply put, if you are mildly affected by the virus, you can easily spread the virus to one or two individuals. However, most reports suggest that the average R0 for the COVID-9 goes up to 3.87. This means that a single coronavirus patient can affect between 3-4 people. In comparison to influenza, the R0 rate is quite high and people are more infectious to the coronavirus than the seasonal flu. 

You must have noticed that patients with coronavirus have a longer period of incubation period. The incubation period for influenza is quite short. Ideally, it lasts between 5-6 days, sometimes even shorter. With COVID-19 the period can last up to 15 days or more. This is why people are at higher risk of contracting the virus. 

Asymptomatic Transmissions

At the onset of the virus, we were only worried about staying away from patients who get affected. Several Rules and guidelines were issued, the world was turned into a giant prison, and social distancing became the key to affect the virus. However, as people learned more about the virus, reports regarding its asymptomatic nature started to appear everywhere. In simple words, asymptomatic means that a patient carrying the coronavirus with no or very little symptoms can easily transmit the virus to susceptible people. 

According to a report, 41 percent of the people can spread the virus without even knowing about it. This also means that if an old person or a person with an underlying condition comes in contact with the asymptomatic patient, that person is most likely to get affected by the virus. On the other hand, if you have a common cold or the flu, you will show symptoms with no asymptomatic carriers. 

In fact, we all feel pretty miserable after getting affected by the flu. Whereas asymptomatics show no sign of fever or cold. Which, in turn, is a great concern for our medical community and the authorities. However, social distancing can help curb the spread of the virus. And it is an effective solution to this problem. Also, if you think that fever is one of the major symptoms of the coronavirus, you are highly mistaken. So far, the medical community has reported that more and more patients are coming up with symptoms such as loss of taste, cough, and skin rashes. This also means that not everyone with corona gets a fever and respiratory illnesses appear quite late. The virus is inconsistent when compared to seasonal flu. 

COVID-9 Is A Deadly Pandemic

You might wonder, you already know a lot of things about the virus. However, trust me, some people still take things lightly. They think that people have learned to blow things out of proportion. Some people believe that the virus can be treated with the help of medical marijuana. To be honest, medical marjuana cannot treat COVID-19. You can get in touch with medical marijuana doctors in NY or any other marijuana expert to find the same. Also, Yes, I understand that staying calm is quite necessary, but ignoring the rising toll deaths can prove bad for someone at high risk in your family. 

Early reports from China showed the death rate at 3 percent. Currently, the death rate for the US ranges from 1.3 to 2.5 percent. This means that one in 50 gets the infection. You also might wonder that the rate is not high, but when you compare it to the seasonal flu, the rate definitely surpassed all expectations. For seasonal flu, the percentage of death rate lies between 0-0.10 percent. That means one in 1,000 patients get affected by the seasonal flu. All in all, this proves why this pandemic is more deadly than influenza. 

Are Marijuana Dispensaries Open During Coronavirus Lockdown?

Marijuana Dispensaries

During the COVID-19 pandemic, most cities and states have issued stay-at-home orders. However, the government has remained essential businesses open. That generates a question, do cannabis dispensaries come under the essential business category?

Yes! They are open. However, restrictions and guidelines for dispensaries and consumers may vary from state to state depending on the local conditions. Let’s have a look at the rules and regulations regarding the opening of cannabis dispensaries in different states during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Marijuana Dispensaries in Arkansas

The state’s health department confirmed that medical marijuana dispensaries are open.

However, the sales of marijuana dispensaries have increased over the past few weeks.

Marijuana Dispensaries in Arizona

The coronavirus lockdown didn’t affect the growth of the medical marijuana program in Arizona. The dispensaries are open, and qualified patients are buying more cannabis products.

However, many dispensaries have changed their hours of operation. For the safety of the public, many have installed air filters, hand sanitizing systems, and also are now offering home delivery services.

Marijuana Dispensaries in California

During the lockdown conditions, cannabis dispensaries remain open in California. However, rules and regulations may vary from county by county and city by city. For instance, the San Francisco Department of Public Health tweeted, “cannabis is an essential medicine for many San Francisco residents. Dispensaries can continue to operate as essential businesses during this time while practicing social distancing and other public health recommendations.”

In San Diego County, retail stores are open during the COVID-19 pandemic. The dispensaries are offering curbside pickup services.

Marijuana Dispensaries in Colorado

In Colorado, recreational dispensaries are open. Most stores allow walk-ins. However, consumers can also order cannabis products online and get them delivered to their homes.

Marijuana Dispensaries in Delaware

In Delaware, marijuana dispensaries will be treated as retail stores during the COVID-19 pandemic and are kept open.

Marijuana Dispensaries in Florida

During this hard time, medical dispensaries are open in Florida. The state health department is allowing patients to renew their medical marijuana cards. They are suggesting telemedicine over physical visits. Using telemedicine services, it’s easy to see a doctor through a digital device. The MMJ recommendation letters in PDF formats are delivered through the emails.

Marijuana Dispensaries in Hawaii

In Hawaii, all the 13 dispensaries have remained open during the COVID-19 pandemic. The dispensaries are listed among the essential services as per Gov. David Ige’s stay-at-home orders.

For all dispensary locations, the social distancing rule is applicable. There are strict rules for cleaning the most frequently touched surfaces such as counters.

The Pono Life dispensary on Maui has designated a private place for serving elders and individuals with special needs.

Most dispensaries have launched take-out service, allowing customers to place orders ahead of time and pick up quickly.

Marijuana Dispensaries in Illinois

During the pandemic, Illinois has kept cannabis stores open. However, the state has closed bars and put restrictions on restaurants for taking out. However, the dispensaries need to follow all the preventive measures, including limiting the number of patients at a time, to ensure the safety of the visitors.

On March 17, the state announced offering curbside pickup services for medical users in all licensed dispensaries. Thus, you can place an order ahead of time, drive to the dispensary, and get your order ready at the dispensary gate.

Marijuana Dispensaries in Louisiana

Medical dispensaries are open in the state. They have issued guidelines regarding limiting restaurants and bars.

Marijuana Dispensaries in Maine

Medical dispensaries are listed among the essential businesses and are kept open during the COVID-19 outbreak.

However, many cities in the state have closed restaurants and bars to avoid large crowds.

Marijuana Dispensaries in Maryland

Medical dispensaries are open.

In the state, many dispensaries have updated their policies regarding delivering cannabis products. For instance, Health for Life Maryland provides pickup services.

The Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission has issued the COVID-19 health and safety instructions such as maintaining at least 6-feet distance, regular cleaning & disinfecting, etc.

Marijuana Dispensaries in Massachusetts

Only medical dispensary sales are allowed. Recreational sales are banned currently. To access state-licensed dispensaries, you must have a doctor-signed medical marijuana card.

Also Read- Here Are Four Things You Need to Learn Before Getting a Marijuana Card

However, some stores have modified their policies, such as adding online ordering services.

Marijuana Dispensaries in Michigan

Marijuana stores are open. All the licensed dispensaries in the state are allowed to offer delivery services during the pandemic. The government is urging consumers to use online and delivery services to avoid close contact, thus reducing the risks of the COVID-19.

Marijuana Dispensaries in Missouri

Cannabis dispensaries are listed among the essential businesses and are kept open.

Marijuana Dispensaries in Nevada

During the COVID-19 crisis, the state allows the sale of medical and adult-use cannabis products through delivery services only.

Marijuana Dispensaries in New Hampshire

The state allows cannabis delivery and curbside pickup.

Marijuana Dispensaries in New Jersey

The state has closed bars and restaurants for take-out services while marijuana dispensaries are open. However, some dispensaries are taking precautions to ensure the safety of consumers, such as limiting purchases.

Marijuana Dispensaries in New York

Medical marijuana dispensaries are open. Dispensaries are allowed to provide curbside pickup services for patients and caregivers.

Marijuana Dispensaries in New Mexico

Medical dispensaries are open for patients to get the medicine for managing their conditions.

Marijuana Dispensaries in New Ohio

Medical dispensaries are open, however, they need to follow certain instructions to ensure safety. The dispensaries provide curbside pickup.

Marijuana Dispensaries in Oregon

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the government has ordered closing the non-essential businesses, avoiding public gatherings. Cannabis stores come under essential businesses and are kept open. However, dispensaries need to ensure physical distancing and can offer delivery services.

Marijuana Dispensaries in Oklahoma

Medical dispensaries are open. No delivery services, but curbside pickup is allowed.

Marijuana Dispensaries in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, medical dispensaries are considered essential businesses and are kept open during the coronavirus crisis.

Marijuana Dispensaries in Rhode Island

Medical dispensary sales are allowed during this time.

Marijuana Dispensaries in Washington State

Marijuana stores are open but have some restrictions. In the state, the government has issued stay-at-home orders while residents can go out to purchase essential items. However, retail stores are required to limit customers and maintain other COVID-19 safety precautions.

Marijuana Dispensaries in Washington DC

The regulators have deemed cannabis dispensaries essential. They have also added delivery services for the consumers.

The Takeaway

Marijuana dispensaries are deemed essential in many US states and are kept open during the coronavirus outbreak. Consumers can visit the dispensaries and buy marijuana products. However, many dispensaries are modifying their policies, including offering curbside pickup and home delivery services to ensure the safe delivery of the products.

During the outbreak, we urge you to stay at home and prefer online services over dispensary visits. However, before going out, wear the safety mask and the glove, and avoid handshakes. Stay safe. Stay healthy.

3 ways to share marijuana without transmitting coronavirus

coronavirus

People are taking various precautions amid the coronavirus outbreak. It is a global concern and has taken the entire world by surprise. As responsible individuals, we must help ourselves and the people around us from getting affected by the novel coronavirus. And it is even more vital for cannabis lovers to ensure how to stay healthy during coronavirus spread. In this post, we will discuss how to stay healthy during coronavirus and how to share cannabis without the fear of transmission. Also if you are currently looking for a viable marijuana purchasing option, cannabis telemedicine services will be able to help you. For instance, if you stay in NY get a medical cannabis card in NY through telemedicine services and reduce the risk of COVID-19 spread.

Refrain yourself from sharing

The best way to stay healthy and unaffected by coronavirus is if you stop sharing. Given the rise in deaths due to this viral disease it is only wise to not share marijuana. You see, scientists are still trying to figure out the analogy of this virus outbreak and we still don’t have a vaccine for coronavirus. So, the right thing to do is not share and stay indoors while the authorities solve this grave issue. Also, don’t forget to wash your hands frequently and disinfect your smoking equipment as often as you can.

Encourage everyone to use their own smoking device

Until 2019 cannabis inhalation was one of the popular methods of marijuana consumption. So, it is fair to say that inhalation remains popular this year too. In fact, there was a report by BDS analytics that showed vape cartridges, pre-rolls, and dried flowers as the most used categories.

Unfortunately, we are at the helm of a viral disease and these methods of consumption are equally risky when it comes to the spread of the disease. And the bad news is consumption techniques among cannabis lovers include sharing and multiple users use a common device. This custom becomes the perfect way to spread COVID-19. So, make sure that you use your own device and ask your friends and relatives to do the same. You see, if you smoke from your own device without the risk of transmission not only will you save yourself from corona but also people who are at higher risk.

Switch to other forms of cannabis products

The beauty of cannabis products is that they are available in different forms. From edibles, tinctures, pills, to oil. You can find several cannabis compounds online. And the good news is, you can buy all sorts of cannabis products through telemedicine. In the wake of coronavirus, telemedicine comes as a blessing in disguise as we all know that visiting cannabis dispensaries can put you at the risk of the novel coronavirus. So, make sure that you get a medical cannabis card in NY or the state you reside in and then purchase the products online. Also, the best option would be to use products that do not require sharing at all. For example, edibles and cannabis beverages.

In the case of edibles, take a jar and fill the edibles in the jar. Tightly close the jar and keep it in a safe place. Furthermore, if you want to reduce the risk of consumption, make sure that you do not eat from the same jar. Instead, take the edibles out in a separate container before indulging. In addition, large edibles like brownies and chocolates would require you to be extra cautious. Do not share food, slice the brownie into two pieces and split cannabis food to reduce the risk of infection.