Disease Comparison
Compare similarities and differences between two diseases.
COVID-19
Moderate
4
Symptoms
2
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
VS
Encephalitis
Moderate
4
Symptoms
0
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
Overview
COVID-19
COVID-19 is an illness caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. It spreads mainly when an infected person breathes out respiratory droplets and very small particles containing the virus. Illness can range from mild to severe, and some people develop complications or longer-lasting symptoms after the initial infection. Testing, vaccination, and appropriate medical care are important parts of prevention and management.
Encephalitis
Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain that can cause a serious illness affecting the nervous system. Symptoms may include fever, headache, confusion, unusual behavior, seizures, sensitivity to light, weakness, difficulty speaking, or loss of consciousness. Encephalitis can progress rapidly and may require urgent hospital treatment. Recovery varies according to the cause and severity of the inflammation.
Symptoms
Shared
FeverOnly in Left Disease
Chest Pain Dry Cough Loss Of SmellOnly in Right Disease
Confusion Headache SeizuresCauses
Shared
None
Only in Left Disease
Kidney Disease ObesityOnly in Right Disease
None
Diagnosis
COVID-19
COVID-19 is diagnosed using tests that detect SARS-CoV-2 infection. Testing may be recommended when symptoms develop or after an appropriate exposure, depending on the situation. Common symptoms can include fever, cough, tiredness, sore throat, congestion, and changes in taste or smell, although symptoms vary. Healthcare providers consider symptoms, exposure history, and test results when evaluating illness.
Encephalitis
Encephalitis is diagnosed using the symptoms, neurological examination, and tests designed to identify inflammation or infection of the brain. Evaluation may include brain imaging with CT or MRI, analysis of cerebrospinal fluid obtained by lumbar puncture, blood tests, and an electroencephalogram to assess brain electrical activity. Additional antibody or infectious-disease testing may be performed to determine the cause.
Prevention
COVID-19
COVID-19 risk can be reduced by staying up to date with recommended vaccines, improving indoor ventilation, and avoiding close contact with people known to be infected. Staying home when sick and following current public-health guidance can reduce transmission. People at higher risk of severe disease should discuss prevention and early treatment options with their healthcare provider.
Encephalitis
Prevention depends on the cause. Recommended vaccinations can protect against some infections associated with encephalitis. Avoiding mosquito and tick bites through appropriate clothing, repellents, and environmental precautions can reduce exposure to certain infectious causes. Good hygiene can reduce transmission of some viruses. People should seek urgent medical attention for severe headache, confusion, seizures, or other rapidly developing neurological symptoms.
Risk Factors
COVID-19
The risk of severe COVID-19 increases with older age and certain underlying medical conditions. Risk can also be affected by immune-system problems and other factors that make it harder for the body to fight infection. Previous vaccination or infection can provide protection against severe disease, although protection changes over time. Exposure to an infected person increases the chance of becoming infected.
Encephalitis
Risk depends on the underlying cause. Exposure to viruses and other infectious organisms can increase risk, including exposure through mosquito or tick bites or contact with infected people. Travel or residence in areas where certain mosquito- or tick-borne infections occur may also increase risk. People with certain immune-system disorders may be susceptible to autoimmune encephalitis. Age and overall health can influence the severity of illness.
Treatment
COVID-19
Treatment comparison will be available soon.
Encephalitis
Treatment comparison will be available soon.