Health officials warned of the seasonal surge in influenza and Covid-19 as the fall season begins, but it is difficult to distinguish between the two viruses because they have many symptoms.
When sniffing seems to be progressing more than “cold”, it’s hard to know what it might be, but there are differences in how the viruses appear and their risks.
How do I know if I have flu?
Influenza is a respiratory infection that has the greatest impact in winter and is more debilitating than the common cold. While a cold usually brings runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes and mild throat irritation, the flu tends to suddenly arrive with fever, soreness and fatigue.
Last winter alone, the flu sent more than 8,000 people to the hospital. At least 18,000 deaths in the UK have been linked to the virus in the past two years. Children, the elderly, people with long-term health problems and those with weak immune systems are at the highest risk.
Vaccination remains the strongest defense. Research shows that last year’s jab blocked thousands of severe cases, reducing hospital admissions by almost one-third during the age of 65 and more than half among children between two and 17 years of age.
Thousands of severe flu cases can be prevented by vaccination (Getty/Istock)
This fall, flu vaccines are available for free from the reception desk to 11th grade through nasal spray. Adults under the age of 65 are also eligible.
How do I know if I have COVID-19?
Covid-19 continues to cause serious illness, especially among vulnerable groups. The virus continues to evolve, and new variants are easily spread through coughing, sneezing and even conversations.
The vaccination campaign each fall continues to try to prevent hospitalization and death.
The symptom list has changed since 2020. Nowadays, many people experience sensations that feel like cold symptoms, such as runny nose, sore throat, or blocked sinuses. But others still report fever or chills, persistent cough, fatigue, headache, shortness of breath or loss of taste and odor. Stomach problems such as nausea and diarrhea can also occur.
The hoarse throat has become one of the iconic features of the latest variant, the doctor said.
UKHSA noted that early this month, common cases in England increased by 7.6% (AFP/Getty)
The new strain is called Stratus, with two variants XFG and XFG.3.
Despite a large percentage of new cases, experts don’t care about the difference and point out that the virus mutations and changes are normal.
People over the age of 65, nursing home residents, and those with basic health problems are entitled to a 19-day booster.
Is the case climbing now?
According to the UK Health Security Agency, flu and Covid-19 levels may be continuing in the winter, adding other seasonal bugs such as RSV and Norovirus.
By September 10, UKHSA noted that coronavirus cases across England had increased by 7.6% compared to last week.
Experts say the risk is the highest when the virus is more likely to spread indoors during the colder months.
Officials urged everyone to qualify for the vaccine to reduce stress in hospitals and protect the most vulnerable. Both Flu and Covid-19 can be severe, but prevention and early awareness are still the best tools for them.
