COVID-19 versus seasonal influenza 2019-2020: USA

Wien Klin Wochenschr. 2020 Jul;132(13-14):387-389. doi: 10.1007/s00508-020-01685-y. Epub 2020 Jun 8.

Abstract

Severe mitigation efforts in the USA to reduce the incidence of COVID-19 infections have led to a massive rise in unemployment, social disruption, and appear to be leading to a severe economic depression. In contrast, no such interventions were regarded as necessary to manage seasonal influenza in 2019-2020. Another mitigation approach is proposed for COVID-19 that would allow society to function and yet should still be effective.

Keywords: Coronavirus; Mitigation; Pandemic; Respiratory Virus; SARS-CoV-2.

MeSH terms

  • Betacoronavirus*
  • COVID-19
  • Coronavirus Infections* / epidemiology
  • Humans
  • Influenza, Human* / epidemiology
  • Pandemics*
  • Pneumonia, Viral* / epidemiology
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Seasons
  • United States / epidemiology