Introduction

As the colder months approach, it seems everyone is nursing some sort of illness. With symptoms ranging from incessant sneezing to a serious cough and fever, it's a challenging time for many.

Identifying the Illness

Is it a common cold? The flu? Or could it be the new Covid XEC strain, which is generating concern?

Current Situation

While the pandemic phase of Covid-19 has eased significantly in the UK compared to last year, fresh reports indicate the emergence of a new variant known as XEC. Initially detected in Germany back in June, this variant has permeated multiple countries, including the UK, where it now accounts for approximately one in ten Covid cases.

Despite evidence suggesting that the XEC variant may not be as lethal as previous strains, its heightened transmissibility poses a new challenge. Experts are warning of a potential 'tripledemic' this winter, with Covid, flu, and respiratory viruses all on the rise. In fact, data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows that Covid-19 hospital admissions in England are steadily increasing, with the admission rate rising from 3.7 to 4.5 per 100,000 between the weeks ending October 6, marking a concerning trend.

Expert Advice

Dr. Jamie Lopez Bernal from the UKHSA advises those showing symptoms of flu or Covid-19—such as high fever, cough, fatigue, and body aches—to minimize contact with others, especially vulnerable individuals.

Symptoms of the XEC Variant

With lateral flow tests no longer available for free, it can be challenging to distinguish which illness you might have. While current reports do not definitively outline the symptoms of the XEC variant, they are thought to be similar to earlier strains. These can include:

Common Symptoms

- Tiredness - Headaches - Sore throat - High fever - Dry cough

Interestingly, the previously common symptom of losing taste and smell is only reported by about 2-3% of those infected now, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

What to Do If You Suspect Covid

If you suspect you have Covid, it's crucial to prioritize rest, stay hydrated, and consider over-the-counter medication to ease your symptoms. The best form of defense remains vaccination, and currently updated vaccines aim to combat the more recent variants, though not specifically for the XEC variant itself. This autumn, the NHS is rolling out booster shots for high-risk groups, including:

- Individuals aged 64 and over - Those aged 6 months to 64 with certain health conditions - Residents of care homes - Frontline health and social care workers

Eligible individuals will be contacted directly for vaccinations but can also schedule appointments via the NHS App, local GPs, or pharmacies.

Flu Symptoms

As for the flu, symptoms typically manifest swiftly and can resemble an aggravated cold. The following symptoms are commonly associated with the flu:

Common Flu Symptoms

- Sudden high fever - Body aches - Fatigue - Dry cough - Sore throat - Headaches - Loss of appetite - Abdominal pain or diarrhea - Nausea and vomiting

Currently, the rates of flu infections and hospitalizations appear stable, but the NHS predicts an upswing in cases as winter progresses, likely peaking around Christmas. For those eligible, the NHS provides a free flu jab, which can be accessed at various locations, including GP offices and pharmacies.

Common Cold Symptoms

The common cold, primarily caused by the rhinovirus, presents as a mild and lingering viral infection. According to Professor John Tregoning from Imperial College London, colds typically spike in October, yet they don't vanish entirely throughout the year. Official guidelines suggest that children may experience up to eight colds annually, while adults average around two.

Symptoms of a common cold include:

Common Cold Symptoms List

- Blocked or runny nose - Sore throat - Mild headaches - Muscle aches - Coughs - Sneezing - Slight fever - Ear and facial pressure - Loss of taste or smell (less common)