As cases of both Covid-19 and flu continue to rise across the UK, distinguishing between the two illnesses based on symptoms alone remains a challenge. According to recent data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), flu positivity rates have risen from 1.9% to 3.3%, while Covid-19 positivity in hospital settings increased from 11.7% to 12.9%. The National Health Service (NHS) has highlighted that without testing, it can be difficult to tell whether an illness is Covid or flu since many symptoms overlap.

Both viruses share symptoms such as high temperature, aching body, headaches, and nausea. However, the NHS and other health authorities note that shortness of breath is a symptom more commonly associated with Covid-19 rather than the flu. This symptom is also seen in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections and can signal the need for prompt medical attention. While flu typically develops quickly and can lead to serious complications like pneumonia—where breathing difficulties may also arise—shortness of breath is typically an early warning sign more indicative of Covid.

The NHS lists common Covid-19 symptoms including a high temperature or chills, a persistent cough, loss or change in taste or smell, shortness of breath, fatigue, headache, sore throat, runny or blocked nose, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, and nausea or vomiting. Most individuals recover within a few weeks, though some suffer longer-lasting effects. In parallel, flu symptoms tend to come on suddenly and include high fever, dry cough, sore throat, headache, exhaustion, difficulty sleeping, and sometimes stomach pain or diarrhoea, especially in children. Flu can also result in severe illness for vulnerable groups.

Amid these rising infections, health experts are urging people, particularly those in vulnerable categories, to take up vaccination offers. Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, expressed encouragement at the increasing uptake of flu vaccines, especially as cases climb. He emphasised that vaccination remains the most effective defence against respiratory illnesses such as flu and Covid-19, particularly with the arrival of the colder months likely to accelerate transmission.

The NHS recommends flu vaccinations especially for groups at higher risk—people aged 65 and older, pregnant women, and individuals with certain health conditions. The vaccine is free of charge for eligible individuals and is important not only to protect oneself but also to reduce transmission within the community. Immunity from the flu vaccine can wane, and flu viruses themselves mutate regularly, making annual vaccination critical.

With the overlap in symptoms making self-diagnosis challenging, testing remains the only definitive way to confirm a Covid-19 infection. The NHS advises that anyone experiencing symptoms with a high temperature or who feels too unwell to carry out normal activities should stay home and seek a test. Emergency signs, such as difficulty breathing, warrant immediate medical attention.

As we face a season of increasing respiratory illnesses, the convergence of flu and Covid-19 highlights the importance of vigilance, testing, and vaccination to protect public health and reduce the burden on healthcare services.

📌 Reference Map:

Source: Noah Wire Services