With a surge in winter viruses and a potent 'super flu' strain causing concern across the country, knowing whether you have a common cold or the more serious influenza has never been more vital. The NHS is now offering clear guidance to help the public distinguish between the two.
The Critical Differences Outlined by the NHS
Berkshire NHS, a community trust with a significant following of 17,100 on TikTok, has shared a simple three-point guide. The advice, posted on 28 December 2025, stresses that while cold and flu symptoms can appear similar, flu tends to be far more severe.
The first major distinction is the speed of onset. Flu symptoms typically appear very quickly, within a few hours, hitting you like a ton of bricks. A cold, by contrast, develops more gradually over several days.
Secondly, the areas affected differ. A common cold primarily targets your nose and throat, leading to that familiar blocked or runny nose and sore throat. Flu, however, is a full-body assault.
Recognising the Full Spectrum of Symptoms
The third and perhaps most telling sign is the level of debilitation. A flu can leave you feeling utterly exhausted and too unwell to carry on with normal activities. You're likely to be confined to bed, whereas with a cold you might still manage to function, albeit uncomfortably.
Flu symptoms are comprehensive and intense. They include:
- A sudden high temperature (fever)
- An aching body and muscle pains
- Feeling extremely tired or exhausted
- A dry cough and sore throat
- A headache, difficulty sleeping, and loss of appetite
- Potential nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea
Colds have a different profile, with symptoms that peak within 2-3 days and usually clear up in about a week or two. Key signs are:
- A blocked or runny nose and sneezing
- A sore throat and hoarse voice
- A cough and general feeling of being unwell
- Sometimes a mild temperature or slight muscle aches
- A loss of taste and smell or pressure in the ears and face
It is worth noting that symptoms can last longer in young children, who may become irritable and have difficulty eating and sleeping.
Why This Knowledge Matters Now
Winter is prime time for these illnesses because viruses spread more easily in crowded indoor spaces, and colder weather can weaken the nose's immune defences. With a powerful flu variant currently circulating, accurate self-assessment is crucial.
While flu often gets better on its own, it can make some people seriously ill. The NHS strongly advises getting the flu vaccine if you are eligible and practising good hygiene and safe distancing to prevent spreading germs.
For most colds, you can recover at home with plenty of rest, fluids, and healthy food. However, understanding the key differences outlined by Berkshire NHS empowers you to seek appropriate care and take the necessary steps to protect both yourself and others during this challenging winter season.
