VA Study Highlights COVID-19’s Greater Severity Over RSV and Flu

A recent study conducted by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has provided compelling evidence that COVID-19 continues to pose a more significant health threat than both respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and influenza. The research, encompassing data from the 2022–2023 and 2023–2024 respiratory virus seasons, highlights higher mortality rates and long-term health complications associated with SARS-CoV-2 infections.

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Key Findings from the VA Study

The study analyzed patient outcomes across two consecutive respiratory virus seasons, focusing on 30-day and 180-day mortality rates, as well as hospitalization frequencies.

Mortality Rates:

• 2022–2023 Season: The 30-day mortality rate for COVID-19 patients was 1.0%, compared to 0.7% for both influenza and RSV patients.
• 2023–2024 Season: COVID-19 patients exhibited a 30-day mortality rate of 0.9%, while influenza and RSV patients each had a rate of 0.7%.
• 180-Day Mortality: COVID-19 patients consistently showed higher mortality at 180 days post-infection during both seasons. In the 2023–2024 season, the risk difference for COVID-19 versus influenza was 0.8%, and 0.6% when compared to RSV. cidrap.umn.edu

Hospitalization Rates:

• 2022–2023 Season: Within 30 days of diagnosis, hospitalization occurred in 17.5% of COVID-19 patients, 15.9% of influenza patients, and 14.4% of RSV patients.
• 2023–2024 Season: Hospitalization rates were 16.2% for COVID-19, 16.3% for influenza, and 14.3% for RSV. cidrap.umn.edu

The study also noted that these differences in outcomes were most pronounced among individuals aged 65 and older, as well as those who were unvaccinated.

Implications for Public Health

These findings underscore the persistent severity of COVID-19, even as public perception may shift toward viewing it as comparable to other respiratory illnesses. The elevated mortality and hospitalization rates associated with SARS-CoV-2 highlight the critical importance of continued vigilance and preventive measures.

The Importance of Rapid COVID-19 Testing

Early detection of COVID-19 remains a cornerstone of effective disease management. Utilizing rapid home tests enables individuals to promptly identify infections, facilitating timely isolation and reducing transmission risk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends testing for those exhibiting symptoms or who have had close contact with confirmed cases. Rapid testing is particularly vital during peak respiratory virus seasons, as it aids in distinguishing COVID-19 from influenza and RSV, which may present with similar symptoms.

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Preventive Measures and Vaccination

Vaccination remains a key strategy in mitigating the impact of COVID-19. Staying up-to-date with recommended vaccine doses has been shown to reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Additionally, adhering to preventive measures such as wearing masks in crowded settings, practicing good hand hygiene, and maintaining physical distance can further decrease transmission rates.

The VA study’s findings reinforce the reality that COVID-19 continues to be more severe than RSV and influenza, particularly for older adults and unvaccinated individuals. As the virus persists and evolves, maintaining preventive practices, staying informed about vaccination recommendations, and utilizing rapid testing are essential steps in protecting individual and public health.

With ongoing seasonal surges, Rapid Home Tests are a vital tool for staying healthy and protecting your family and loved ones. Stock your home medicine cabinet this season with market-leading ASSURE-100 rapid tests.

• Keywords: COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, rapid testing, influenza, RSV, VA study, respiratory illnesses, vaccination