In recent years, the symptoms of Covid-19 have shifted, with many people experiencing only cold-like symptoms. However, some individuals may still exhibit more severe symptoms such as fever, chills, and difficulty breathing.
Covid-19 can also affect taste and smell, but this symptom is not unique to the virus. Dr. Simon Clarke, an associate professor in cellular microbiology at the University of Reading, notes that other respiratory viruses like flu and RSV can cause similar symptoms.
Meanwhile, flu and Covid-19 often overlap in terms of symptoms, making it challenging to determine which virus is causing the illness. According to Prof Balloux, a test is necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
Most people recover from Covid-19 within days or weeks, with some experiencing persistent symptoms known as long Covid. The latest figures show that over 2 million people in England and Scotland are suffering from long Covid.
Flu, on the other hand, can be a severe illness, especially for vulnerable groups such as older adults, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions. According to Dr. Clarke, flu can cause severe pneumonia and death.
RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) primarily affects young children, causing bronchiolitis, a chest infection that makes it difficult to breathe and feed. In older adults, RSV can lead to pneumonia, resulting in 9,000 hospital admissions annually.
Norovirus, also known as the winter vomiting bug, causes vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain, and cramping. While it is usually short-lived, norovirus can progress into a prolonged illness in young children, the elderly, or those with weakened immune systems.
When treating these infections, it’s essential to stay at home, get plenty of rest, and stay hydrated. Over-the-counter medication like paracetamol can help alleviate symptoms. Vaccination is the best protection against flu, Covid-19, and RSV, and free vaccines are available for those in at-risk groups.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle during winter includes keeping warm, following a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and reducing alcohol consumption.
Source: https://www.telegraph.co.uk/health-fitness/conditions/cold-flu/covid-rsv-influenze-norovirus