In the UK, respiratory illnesses such as influenza, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), walking pneumonia, and human metapneumovirus (hMPV) are prevalent, particularly during the colder months. Recognising the signs and symptoms of each illness can help you to seek the appropriate care and reduce transmission.
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Influenza (Flu)
Signs and symptoms:
- Sudden onset of high fever
- Chills
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Sore throat
- Cough
How to identify flu:
- Symptoms typically appear abruptly.
- Higher fever compared to other respiratory illnesses.
2025 UK statistics:
- The 2024-2025 flu season has seen a significant increase in hospital admissions, with an average of more than 5,000 patients a day in hospital with flu in January.
Advice:
- Get vaccinated annually.
- Practice good hygiene, such as regular handwashing.
- Seek medical advice if symptoms are severe or if you are in a high-risk group.
- Eat plenty of nutrient-dense foods to support your immune system.
Signs and symptoms:
- Fever
- Cough
- Loss or change in taste or smell
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
How to identify COVID-19:
- Loss of taste or smell is more specific to COVID-19.
- Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may appear 2-14 days after exposure.
2025 UK statistics:
- COVID-19 continues to circulate, contributing to increased hospital admissions during the winter months.
Advice:
- Stay updated with vaccinations.
- Follow public health guidelines, including mask-wearing and social distancing if recommended, and practice good hygiene.
- Isolate and get tested if symptoms develop.
Signs and symptoms:
- Runny or congested nose
- Decreased appetite
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Fever
- Wheezing
How to identify RSV:
- Common in infants and young children.
- Can lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia in severe cases.
2025 UK statistics:
- RSV activity has returned to typical seasonal patterns, with hospitalisation rates peaking at 3.95 per 100,000 population during the 2024-2025 season.
Advice:
- Maintain good hygiene practices.
- Keep infants away from people with cold-like symptoms.
- Seek medical attention for breathing difficulties or dehydration signs.
Signs and symptoms:
- Mild fever
- Persistent dry cough
- Fatigue
- Chest pain
- Sore throat
How to identify walking pneumonia:
- Milder form of pneumonia; people can usually continue daily activities.
- Symptoms develop gradually over one to four weeks.
2025 UK statistics:
- Specific data on walking pneumonia is limited; however, it remains a common respiratory infection.
Advice:
- Consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and potential antibiotic treatment.
- Rest and stay hydrated to prevent the infection from progressing.
Signs and symptoms:
- Cough
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Body aches
- Headache
Differences:
- Symptoms resemble those of a common cold.
- Most people have been infected by age five and can be reinfected throughout life.
2025 UK statistics:
- hMPV is a common winter respiratory infection, with current levels as expected for this time of year.
Advice:
- Most infections are mild and self-limiting.
- Maintain good hygiene to prevent spreading germs.
- Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen.
How to tell common respiratory illnesses apart
Distinguishing between these illnesses can be challenging due to overlapping symptoms. Key differentiators include:
- Influenza: Abrupt onset with high fever and pronounced muscle aches.
- COVID-19: Loss of taste or smell; variable severity; longer incubation period.
- RSV: Common in young children; may cause wheezing and breathing difficulties.
- Walking Pneumonia: Gradual onset with milder symptoms.
- hMPV: Similar symptoms to the common cold, but can lead to bronchitis or pneumonia.
Stay vigilant
Respiratory illnesses in the UK are particularly prevalent in the winter months, with babies, the elderly, and vulnerable people (such as those with asthma and COPD) being particularly at risk. Be sure to practice good hygiene, stay warm, stay hydrated, and eat a well-balanced diet to maintain a healthy immune system. If you are unsure which virus or infection you may have, and your symptoms aren’t improving, please contact your GP or ring NHS 111.
