The test package identifies the most common causes of respiratory infections, including influenza A and B, as well as the RS virus. It also includes the cause of Covid-19, Sars-CoV-2.
Coronavirus and COVID-19
Viruses belonging to the coronavirus family can cause respiratory infections in humans, ranging from mild colds to more severe diseases.
Coronavirus
- The disease caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 is called COVID-19.
- The most typical symptoms of the coronavirus are fever, cough, and breathing difficulties.
- Many viral diseases, such as influenza, coronavirus disease, and RSV infection, are very similar in nature and symptoms.
- Coronavirus vaccinations are effective in preventing severe forms of the disease.
Coronavirus and COVID-19
The coronavirus belongs to a large family of viruses that can cause diseases in both humans and animals. In humans, coronaviruses can cause respiratory infections that range from mild, like the common cold, to more severe diseases.
COVID-19, which has caused a global pandemic, is a disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, also known as coronavirus disease. This virus was first detected in Wuhan, China, at the end of 2019. COVID-19 is particularly significant due to its rapid spread and severe health impacts, leading to extensive public health measures worldwide.
Symptoms of coronavirus
Coronavirus symptoms range from mild to severe. Generally healthy adults often experience coronavirus disease mildly. For the elderly, pregnant women, and those in risk groups due to their health conditions, the disease can be more severe and may require hospitalization.
Symptoms of coronavirus disease can include:
- fever
- cough
- breathing difficulties
- muscle aches
- headache
- dizziness
- fatigue
- sore throat
- runny nose
- gastrointestinal symptoms
- loss of taste or smell.
Many viral diseases, such as influenza, coronavirus disease, and RSV infection, are very similar in nature and symptoms. To determine which viral disease is present, the only way to confirm the diagnosis is through a laboratory test.
Incubation time of coronavirus
The incubation time of the virus, or the time from infection to the onset of symptoms, can be 2-14 days. However, the most common incubation period is 4-5 days.
Coronavirus infection and its spread
Coronavirus is primarily transmitted through droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The virus can also spread through contact if a person touches a contaminated surface and then their face. The risk of infection is highest in close contact with an infected person.
The most important way to prevent the spread of coronavirus is to maintain good hand hygiene and get vaccinated against the virus. Hands should always be washed with soap when coming indoors, preparing food, eating, after using the toilet, and after blowing the nose or sneezing.
Treatment of coronavirus
The treatment of coronavirus depends on the severity of the symptoms. In mild cases, rest and hydration at home may suffice, while more severe cases may require hospitalization and respiratory support.
Post-Coronavirus condition
Some individuals may experience long-lasting symptoms of coronavirus disease, known as “long COVID.” This phenomenon is still poorly understood and refers to post-coronavirus infection symptoms that can persist for months. Symptoms can be varied, such as fatigue, breathing difficulties, and neurological problems, and linking them to the original coronavirus disease can be challenging.
Duration of coronavirus disease
Coronavirus disease often lasts 3-5 days. You can return to work and school when symptoms have clearly improved and the fever has subsided. In viral infections, contagiousness often decreases quickly from the onset of symptoms, although a runny nose and cough may last longer.
Coronavirus test
Coronavirus testing helps identify infected individuals and distinguish coronavirus disease from other virus-caused diseases, such as influenza or RSV. There are several types of tests, such as nucleic acid detection and antigen tests, which vary in accuracy and speed.
Virus testing via Puhti
Through Puhti, you can order virus tests without a doctor’s referral. Puhti offers testing options including both nucleic acid detection and antigen testing.
It is important to determine the cause of symptoms in a patient with fever and respiratory symptoms, as influenza, RSV infection, and COVID-19 can cause similar symptoms. A laboratory test can examine all three infections simultaneously, facilitating the correct diagnosis and initiation of treatment.
You can learn more about the tests here:
- Viral tests from the nasopharynx (Influenza A and B, Corona, and RSV) – Antigen
- Viral tests from the nasopharynx (Influenza A and B, Corona, and RSV) – Nucleic acid
Nucleic acid or antigen test?
Nucleic acid test identifies the virus’s genome, meaning they search for the virus’s genetic material in the sample. These tests are highly sensitive and can detect even small amounts of the virus. They are suitable for testing both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals and can provide results at any stage of the disease. However, PCR tests are usually slower, and obtaining results can take 1-3 days.
Antigen tests, on the other hand, identify the virus’s surface proteins. They are faster than nucleic acid tests and can provide results in as little as six hours. Antigen tests are best suited for testing symptomatic individuals, especially when it has been less than five days since the onset of symptoms. They are not as sensitive as nucleic acid tests but are useful in situations where a quick result is needed.
Coronavirus vaccine
The coronavirus vaccine protects against severe coronavirus disease and reduces the need for hospitalization. The coronavirus vaccine is recommended especially for those in risk groups and those with chronic illnesses. You can book a coronavirus vaccination through Mehiläinen. Book an appointment easily here.
Basic series
The recommendation for the basic series applies to individuals who have not previously received any coronavirus vaccinations.
The basic series is recommended for:
- Everyone aged 18 and over and those aged 12 and over in risk groups, one dose of coronavirus vaccine instead of the previous three doses. Mehiläinen does not vaccinate individuals under 18 years.
- Two doses of vaccine for those with severely weakened immune systems.
- 2–3 doses of vaccine for those who have undergone a stem cell transplant, based on individual assessment.
Booster dose
According to the current recommendation, a booster dose of the coronavirus vaccine is recommended for:
- Elderly individuals in nursing homes or receiving regular home care.
- Everyone aged 75 and over.
- Individuals of all ages with severely weakened immune systems.
Additionally, vaccination is recommended for everyone aged 65 and over and everyone aged 18 and over with a condition that increases the risk of severe coronavirus disease.
The test package identifies the most common causes of respiratory infections, including influenza A and B, as well as the RS virus. It also includes the cause of Covid-19, Sars-CoV-2.
Information Article
RS Virus (RSV)
The RS virus is a common virus that causes respiratory infections, particularly affecting children, the elderly, and individuals in risk groups due to their health conditions.
Information Article
Influenza and Influenza Vaccine
Influenza is a disease in which influenza viruses cause inflammation of the upper respiratory tract. Influenza occurs every winter, causing influenza epidemics.
Information Article
Lymphocytes (B-Ly, L-Ly%)
The leukocyte differential (B-Diffi) test should be done when the number of leukocytes in the blood is elevated.
Article updated:
21 February 2025