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Coronavirus symptoms: how to tell if you have a common cold, Covid or the flu

<span>Photograph: Gonzalo Fuentes/Reuters</span>
Photograph: Gonzalo Fuentes/Reuters

With winter approaching, the UK is entering the traditional seasons for colds and flu, with the additional complication this year that symptoms of those two illnesses can be broadly similar to those experienced by people who have caught the novel coronavirus and may be at risk of spreading Covid.

The NHS in England has produced a guide to differentiate between the three types of illnesses, which health experts hope will make it clearer to people whether they have an illness that would have most likely just brushed aside last year, but which this year might lead them to think they need to self-isolate or seek to have a coronavirus test.

The difference between Covid-19, cold and flu symptoms

Coronavirus or Covid-19

The most common symptoms of coronavirus or Covid-19 are a fever (a temperature of 37.8°C or 100°F) and a new persistent cough (usually dry). Patients may also sometimes suffer from fatigue, aches and pains, sore throat, headaches and shortness of breath. Diarrhoea and a runny or stuffy nose are rare. The NHS says symptoms can range from mild to severe.

Colds

The most common symptoms of a cold are sneezing, aches and pains, a runny or stuffy nose and sore throat. A mild cough can be experienced. There is sometimes fatigue, and it is rare to experience a fever or headaches. Colds do not cause diarrhoea. The NHS states that with a cold there is usually a gradual onset of symptoms.

Flu

Flu most commonly consists of a fever, fatigue, a dry cough, aches and pains and headaches. Patients will sometimes experience a runny or stuffy nose or a sore throat. Diarrhoea can sometimes occur for children with the flu. There is no sneezing or shortness of breath with flu, and the NHS notes that there is usually a rapid onset of symptoms.

  • If you are in any doubt and are concerned about your well-being or the health of someone you are caring for, you should seek medical assistance in the UK by dialling 111 or by following the Covid-19 advice on the NHS website.