{"id":13624,"date":"2025-12-17T09:39:54","date_gmt":"2025-12-17T09:39:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.jubi24.com\/?p=13624"},"modified":"2025-12-17T09:39:56","modified_gmt":"2025-12-17T09:39:56","slug":"super-flu-or-a-cold-here-are-the-symptoms-to-look-out-for","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.jubi24.com\/?p=13624","title":{"rendered":"Super flu or a cold? Here are the symptoms to look out for"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"main\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"hydrate-root sc-10wlkbs-0\" data-component=\"SupportNSCNative\" data-loading=\"lazy\" data-theme-name=\"base\">\n<aside class=\"sc-hez36s-0 dFpFuY\">\n<div class=\"sc-hez36s-1 iBibVd\">\n<h3 data-testid=\"support-nsc-title\" class=\"sc-hez36s-2 jVZWGn\">Your support helps us to tell the story<\/h3>\n<div class=\"sc-hez36s-8 juUDRT\">\n<div class=\"sc-hez36s-13 cqPbFA\">\n<div class=\"sc-aja53j-0 rAFIl sc-hez36s-16 jZSKtc\">\n<div class=\"sc-aja53j-6 PdmgT\">\n<div data-testid=\"dropdown-with-gradient-collapsed-content-container\" class=\"sc-aja53j-5 eZqxmv\">\n<div>\n<div data-testid=\"dropdown-with-gradient-collapsed-content\" class=\"sc-aja53j-4 tawua\">\n<div>\n<div data-testid=\"support-nsc-collapsed-content-tablet\" class=\"sc-hez36s-7 gZmYS\">\n<p class=\"sc-1uza6dc-0 iCTyfe\">From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it&#8217;s investigating the financials of Elon Musk&#8217;s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, &#8216;The A Word&#8217;, which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.<\/p>\n<p class=\"sc-1uza6dc-0 iCTyfe\">At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.<\/p>\n<p class=\"sc-1uza6dc-0 iCTyfe\">The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.<\/p>\n<p><strong class=\"sc-1uza6dc-1 cglitp\">Your support makes all the difference.<\/strong><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><button class=\"sc-aja53j-1 keLMOw sc-aja53j-7 eMEmGu\"><span data-testid=\"dropdown-with-gradient-dropdown-tablet\" class=\"sc-aja53j-3 dHXFkr\"><span data-action-type=\"Read more\" class=\"sc-aja53j-2 dIsmaL\">Read more<\/span><\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>A resident doctors\u2019 strike is set to heap pressure on the NHS next week after new figures revealed a sharp increase in flu cases across England.<\/p>\n<p>An average of <a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.the-independent.com\/news\/health\/flu-pandemic-2025-masks-hospitals-b2882695.html\">2,660 flu patients were hospitalised daily<\/a> in the week leading up to 7 December, with 106 requiring critical care. <\/p>\n<p>This marks a 55 per cent surge from the previous week\u2019s 1,717 patients, 69 of whom were in critical care. <\/p>\n<p>With common colds also prevalent during the colder months, distinguishing between the two illnesses can be challenging. <\/p>\n<p>Understanding the key differences is crucial for safeguarding personal and family health throughout winter.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s what to know.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-awdjp1-2 cbpRGD sc-awdjp1-3 image align-none\">\n<figure class=\"sc-1cbdeug-0 cXcwgU\">\n<div data-gallery-length=\"2\" class=\"sc-awdjp1-0 bVjliC\"><button class=\"sc-1uf4o3q-0 dkRtZs inline-gallery-btn\" id=\"trigger-autogallery-160900\"><span class=\"sc-1uf4o3q-1 hwVecx\">open image in gallery<\/span><\/button><\/p>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"sc-1cbdeug-1 sc-1cbdeug-3 gtVitN hgzWpY\">Flu cases are sharply increasing across England<span class=\"sc-1cbdeug-7 exGSyR\"> <!-- -->(<!-- -->Getty Images<!-- -->)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<h2><strong>What causes the flu and what causes a cold?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Colds and flu are both respiratory illnesses, but are caused by different viruses.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cColds are primarily caused by viruses, with rhinovirus being the most common culprit,\u201d says Dr Naveed Asif, GP at The London General Practice. <\/p>\n<p>\u201cWhereas, the flu is specifically caused by influenza viruses, primarily types A and B.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>That means it is possible to have a cold and flu at the same time.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cBoth have peaks during the cold season and can run your immune system down, making you susceptible to further infections,\u201d Dr Asif says.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Do colds and flu spread in the same way?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>\u201cBoth the common cold and the flu are highly contagious respiratory illnesses spread through direct contact and respiratory droplets,\u201d says Dr Asif. <\/p>\n<p>\u201cTransmission occurs when virus-laden droplets are expelled during coughing, sneezing, or talking, landing in the mouths or noses of nearby individuals. In poorly ventilated situations, these droplets can travel longer distances.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cInfection can also occur by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-awdjp1-2 cbpRGD sc-awdjp1-3 image align-none\">\n<figure class=\"sc-1cbdeug-0 cXcwgU\">\n<div data-gallery-length=\"2\" class=\"sc-awdjp1-0 iKCsYh\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.jubi24.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/12124603-03b91cb3-c7a6-40d7-a1a0-380ed088d4b6.jpg\" loading=\"lazy\" alt=\"Colds and flu are spread by virus-laden droplets\" class=\"sc-1mc30lb-0 ggpMaE inline-gallery-btn\" \/><\/p>\n<p><button class=\"sc-1uf4o3q-0 dkRtZs inline-gallery-btn\" id=\"trigger-autogallery-160901\"><span class=\"sc-1uf4o3q-1 hwVecx\">open image in gallery<\/span><\/button><\/p>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"sc-1cbdeug-1 sc-1cbdeug-3 gtVitN hgzWpY\">Colds and flu are spread by virus-laden droplets<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p><h2><strong>What are the main symptoms and how can you tell a cold from flu?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>\u201cA common cold usually causes a runny or blocked nose, sneezing, a sore throat, mild cough and mild fatigue,\u201d explains Dr Claire Agathou, GP and co-founder of the A\u2013Z General Practice at The Wellington Hospital, part of HCA Healthcare UK. <\/p>\n<p>\u201cMeanwhile, flu typically causes a sudden onset of fever, severe tiredness and weakness, muscle and joint aches, a headache, a dry cough, chills (feeling shivery and sweats), a loss of appetite and sometimes diarrhoea.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe key difference is that flu tends to come on suddenly and much more severely, whereas cold symptoms are milder and develop more gradually.\u201d<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Can colds and flu lead to other illnesses or complications?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>\u201cWhile colds are usually mild and self-limiting, both colds and flu can lead to complications such as sinusitis, ear infections, chest infections, and worsening of underlying health conditions,\u201d says Dr Agathou.<\/p>\n<p>\u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/www.the-independent.com\/topic\/flu\">Flu<\/a> can cause pneumonia, hospital admission, and serious illness in vulnerable groups. However, even those who are normally well can become very unwell so it\u2019s important to contact your GP promptly to discuss your symptoms if you feel unwell or are concerned about your symptoms.\u201d<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-31azim-0 eBMXOi nextSwipeIgnore sentry-block\">\n<figure class=\"sc-1cbdeug-0 cXcwgU sc-wlmftc-0 ccDPKb\">\n<div class=\"sc-tgepz5-0 btvJEK\">\n<div id=\"video_holder\" class=\"sc-tgepz5-2 VHAZE\">\n<div class=\"sc-tgepz5-1 SHZXj\">\n<div class=\"sc-1b6sh7s-0 htbkgu sc-tgepz5-3 hTSQsN\">\n<div class=\"sc-1b6sh7s-2 ihgOiD\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.the-independent.com\/img\/logo-white-out.svg\" alt=\"Video Player Placeholder\" class=\"sc-1b6sh7s-3 jhJxRW\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<p><h2><strong>Is flu treated and managed in a different way to a cold?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>\u201cBoth are mainly managed with rest, fluids and symptom relief such as paracetamol,\u201d says Dr Agathou. <\/p>\n<p>\u201cHowever, in higher-risk groups, antiviral medication may be prescribed for flu if started early.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cAntibiotics are not effective for either unless there is a secondary bacterial infection.\u201d<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Is the recovery period usually longer for a cold or flu?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>\u201cA cold usually settles within seven to 10 days, but flu recovery often takes one to two weeks, with fatigue sometimes lasting longer,\u201d says Dr Agathou.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Can flu and colds be prevented in similar ways?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>\u201cThe single most effective protection against flu is the annual flu vaccine, particularly for vulnerable groups, but other preventive steps for both flu and a common cold include regular handwashing and staying home when unwell,\u201d says Dr Agathou. <\/p>\n<p>\u201cI\u2019d also recommend avoiding touching the face, covering any coughs and sneezes and making sure indoor spaces are well ventilated.\u201d<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Who is eligible for the flu vaccine in the UK?<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>\u201c<a rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" href=\"https:\/\/www.the-independent.com\/news\/health\/flu-vaccine-uk-2025-h3n2-strain-nhs-b2883260.html\">The free NHS flu vaccine<\/a> is offered annually to adults aged 65 and over, pregnant women, children aged 2-3 years and school-aged children (reception years to Year 11), people aged six months to 64 years with eligible long-term conditions, people with learning disabilities, carers, frontline health and social care workers, and care home residents and staff,\u201d says Dr Agathou. <\/p>\n<p>\u201cHousehold contacts of immunocompromised individuals are also eligible.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cHowever, people who are not eligible for a free NHS vaccine can still access the flu jab privately. If you are unsure, speak to your GP or local pharmacist.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><br \/>\n<br \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.the-independent.com\/news\/health\/superflu-cold-difference-symptoms-cause-signs-vaccine-b2885599.html\">Source link <\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Your support helps us to tell the story From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it&#8217;s investigating the financials of Elon Musk&#8217;s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, &#8216;The A Word&#8217;, which shines a light on the American women fighting &#8230; <a title=\"Super flu or a cold? Here are the symptoms to look out for\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/www.jubi24.com\/?p=13624\" aria-label=\"Read more about Super flu or a cold? Here are the symptoms to look out for\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":13625,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"fifu_image_url":"","fifu_image_alt":"","_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-13624","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/www.jubi24.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Super-flu-or-a-cold-Here-are-the-symptoms-to.jpg","jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.jubi24.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13624","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.jubi24.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.jubi24.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jubi24.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jubi24.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=13624"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/www.jubi24.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13624\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":13626,"href":"https:\/\/www.jubi24.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/13624\/revisions\/13626"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jubi24.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/13625"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.jubi24.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=13624"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jubi24.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=13624"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.jubi24.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=13624"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}