Health officials warn about a seasonal increase in flu and COVID-19 when autumn arrives.
When a sniffle seems to progress beyond “only a cold”, it is difficult to know what could be.
The two viruses share many symptoms, which makes it difficult to distinguish them, but there are differences in how they appear and the risks they raise.
How do I know if I have flu?
When a sniffle seems to progress beyond “only a cold”, it is difficult to know what could be (Getty/Istock)
The flu is a respiratory infection that hits stronger in winter and can be much more weakening than the common cold. While colds generally bring a nose that is found, sneezing, crying eyes and soft throat irritation, the flu tends to arrive suddenly with fever, pain and exhaustion.
Last winter alone, the flu sent more than 8,000 people to the hospital. In the last two years, at least 18,000 deaths in the United Kingdom have been linked to the virus. Children, older adults, people with long -term health problems and those with weakened immune systems face the greatest risks.
Vaccination remains the strongest defense. The investigation shows that last year’s soap prevented thousands of severe cases, cutting hospital income in almost a third between those over 65 and more than half among children aged 2 to 17.
This fall, the flu vaccine is offered for free for the over 65 years, pregnant women, children of 2 and 3 years through their header, and schoolchildren from reception until 11 through Nasal Spray. Adults under 65 with certain health conditions are also eligible.
How do I know if I have COVID-19?
COVID-19 continues to cause a serious illness, particularly among vulnerable groups. The virus constantly evolves, with new variants that extend easily through cough, sneezing or even conversation.
Vaccination campaigns every fall continues to try to prevent hospitalizations and deaths.
Experts say that vaccines are the best way to protect against Covid-19 (Getty) damage
The list of symptoms has changed since 2020. Many people now experience what you feel like cold symptoms, such as nasal secretion, throat pain or blocked breasts. But others still report fever or chills, persistent cough, fatigue, headaches, lack of breath or a loss of flavor and smell. Stomach problems such as nausea and diarrhea can also occur.
Doctors say that a hoarse throat has become one of the distinctive characteristics of the latest variants.
The new strain, called Stratus, has two variants, XFG and XFG.3.
Despite taking into account a large proportion of new cases, experts are not worried about propagation, and pointed out that it is normal for viruses to mutate and change.
Those 65 years or older, household residents care and people with underlying health problems are entitled to COVID-19 reinforcement.
Are the cases uploading now?
According to the United Kingdom Health Security Agency, flu and COVID-19 levels could be on the rise to winter, joining other seasonal errors such as RSV and Norovirus.
By September 10, the UKHSA observed an increase of 7.6 percent in cases of Coronavirus in England compared to the previous week.
Experts say the risk is higher during the coldest months when viruses spread more easily indoors.
Officials urge all eligible to assume their vaccines to reduce tension in hospitals and protect the most vulnerable. Both flu and COVID-19 can be serious, but early prevention and consciousness remain the best tools against them.
(Tagstotranslate) Flu vaccine
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