COVID-19 versus H1N1: pandemic to pandemic − a comparative analysis of clinical presentation, lab parameters, disease severity and outcome

Background: Since December 2019, we have been facing the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. January 30, 2020 marked India’s first case. A similar entity H1N1 was responsible for the last pandemic our civilization saw. Comparing the clinical and radiological characteristics, severity and prognosis of the two is the objective. Methods :Cross-sectional, observational, and comparative study of patients diagnosed with COVID-19 (April–May 2020) and H1N1 (January 2017–December 2019). Results :We observed raised male to female (M:F) ratio in both, average age higher in H1N1, moderate to severe symptoms with worse clinical status in H1N1, and COVID more often being associated with mild symptoms. Thrombocytopenia, lymphocytosis, and raised lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were seen in both the diseases but were worse in H1N1; multiorgan involvement was seen in H1N1 (P < 0.001). COVID-19 patients who did report complications were refractory to routine critical care management. Radiographic abnormality was present in both. Poor prognosis was noted in elderly, especially those with comorbidities. This association was less evident in COVID-19. Discussion: Though Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome- Corona Virus 2 has a milder course, sudden deterioration can be fatal. Serial monitoring of history and vitals is the key. Swine flu patients with a comparatively aggressive course need to be managed accordingly, but Sequential Organ Failure Assessment, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation Score-II, and similar scoring can help in triage and predicting prognosis. Clinical and laboratory findings are similar − swine flu has more complications but increased risk of cardiac involvement is seen in COVID. Chest X-ray proves sufficient for imaging, reducing the requirement of computed tomography (CT) scans. Studies involving larger sample size and interventional trials are need of the hour.