Do I have the flu or COVID-19?

The further we head towards winter 2025, the more people are asking the same question: Do I have the flu, or is it COVID-19? With both illnesses circulating at the same time, it can be difficult to tell them apart, especially as the symptoms overlap. But understanding the key differences, keeping up with the latest UK health statistics, and knowing how to protect yourself and your loved ones can make all the difference.

 

Recent UK statistics for autumn/winter 2025

In the UK, both the flu and COVID-19 are expected to remain significant health concerns as we approach the colder months. According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), flu cases have been rising steadily since early October 2025, with a notable uptick in hospitalisations. As of the most recent data, flu-related hospital admissions have increased by 15% compared to the same period last year.

Meanwhile, COVID-19 remains a persistent threat, though vaccination campaigns have been successful in reducing severe cases. Recent UK statistics show a 10% increase in cases in late September and early October, partly due to a new variant (XBB.1.16) circulating within communities. Health experts are keeping a close eye on how this new variant spreads, and its symptoms appear to be slightly more flu-like in nature, making it even more challenging to differentiate the two infections.

 

Symptoms of the flu and COVID-19

While flu and COVID-19 share many similarities in terms of symptoms, there are some key differences that can help you tell them apart.

 

Symptoms of the flu

Influenza symptoms generally appear suddenly and can include:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting (more common in children)

Flu symptoms often hit you hard and fast, and you may feel very unwell within a few hours of infection. People with the flu tend to feel extremely tired and can experience muscle aches and pains that make it hard to move around.

Symptoms of COVID-19

COVID-19 symptoms can vary widely but usually appear between 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. Common symptoms include:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Loss of taste or smell (less common in newer variants)
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Headache

COVID-19 can also lead to more serious respiratory symptoms and complications, particularly in those with weakened immune systems or underlying health conditions. People with COVID-19 might experience shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, and a more prolonged illness compared to the flu.

 

How to differentiate between flu and COVID-19

The primary difficulty in distinguishing between the flu and COVID-19 is that many of the symptoms overlap. However, there are a few clues that could help differentiate them:

1. Onset of symptoms: Flu symptoms typically come on suddenly, while COVID-19 symptoms might develop more gradually over a few days.
2. Shortness of breath: COVID-19 often causes more severe respiratory issues, such as shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, particularly in more vulnerable people.
3. Loss of taste or smell: While this symptom was more common in earlier strains of COVID-19, it can still appear with certain variants. It’s less likely to occur with the flu.
4. Duration of illness: Flu symptoms tend to resolve within about 7 to 10 days, whereas COVID-19 can result in a longer duration of illness, and people may continue to feel fatigued or unwell for weeks.

 

Vaccinations: Who can get them and where?

Both the flu and COVID-19 are preventable through vaccination, and getting vaccinated is one of the best ways to protect yourself, particularly as we enter the autumn and winter months.

• Flu vaccination: The flu vaccine is available to everyone, but it is especially recommended for those at higher risk, including:
  • People aged 65 and over
  • Pregnant women
  • Young children (especially those aged 2-5)
  • Those with underlying health conditions (e.g., asthma, diabetes, heart disease)

Flu vaccines are available through GP surgeries, pharmacies, and some schools. The NHS usually offers the vaccine for free to at-risk groups, but others can receive it for a small fee at pharmacies.

• COVID-19 vaccination: The COVID-19 vaccine is also recommended for everyone aged 5 and above. The NHS continues to offer vaccines, including boosters, to those most at risk, including:
  • People aged 50 and over
  • People with weakened immune systems
  • Health and care workers

Boosters are particularly important for people who are more vulnerable to severe illness. COVID-19 vaccinations are available at GP surgeries, pharmacies, and vaccination centres.

 

How symptoms may look different in different age groups

• Babies and children: Flu symptoms in babies and young children can be more difficult to spot, as they might not be able to communicate how they’re feeling. You may notice they are more irritable, have a fever, cough, or exhibit poor appetite. COVID-19 in children often presents with mild symptoms, but in some cases, children can develop more severe respiratory symptoms. Parents should monitor for signs of difficulty breathing or persistent fever and seek medical attention if needed.
• Adults: For most healthy adults, both the flu and COVID-19 are treatable at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications. However, people with underlying conditions (e.g., asthma, heart disease) may experience more severe symptoms.
• Elderly: Older adults are at the highest risk for both flu and COVID-19 complications. Severe illness or death from these viruses is more common in those over the age of 65. Symptoms such as confusion, difficulty breathing, or chest pain should prompt immediate medical attention.

 

Preventing and treating the flu and COVID-19

The best way to avoid both the flu and COVID-19 is through good hygiene practices. Wash your hands regularly, cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and avoid close contact with anyone who is unwell. Wearing a mask can also help reduce the transmission of both viruses, especially in crowded indoor spaces.

If you have flu-like symptoms, it’s essential to rest, stay hydrated, and take over-the-counter medications such as paracetamol for fever and pain. For COVID-19, staying home and isolating is key to preventing the spread, and if symptoms worsen, seek medical advice for possible antiviral treatments or support.

For both conditions, the NHS offers clear guidelines on when to seek medical attention. Severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or confusion require immediate medical care.

 

Seek medical attention if needed

As flu and COVID-19 continue to circulate in the UK during autumn and winter 2025/2026, understanding the symptoms, differences, and prevention methods for both illnesses is essential. If in doubt, contact your GP or use NHS 111 online for advice. With proper vaccination, good hygiene, and awareness of symptoms, you can help protect yourself and your community during these colder months.