Colds and flu

A common cold is a viral infection that spreads through coughs, sneezes, or touching surfaces with germs and then touching your face. Unfortunately, cold viruses also change often, which is why you can catch new colds throughout the year. 

Symptoms include ^{Footnote [1]}:

• a blocked or runny nose
• sneezing
• a sore throat
• a hoarse voice
• a cough
• feeling tired and unwell.

These symptoms are similar to symptoms you can get with a flu virus, but there are some differences you might notice.

Having a cold can feel like an inconvenience, especially at busy times of the year like Christmas, but the good news is that they usually start to clear up in a week or two ^{Footnote [1]}. Although, symptoms like a cough or a runny nose may stick around a bit longer.

Although you can’t make a cold disappear instantly, resting, drinking plenty of fluids, and using cold remedies like saline sprays can ease symptoms and help you recover faster.

The flu is also a viral infection that affects your nose, throat, and lungs. It spreads easily through the air when someone with the virus coughs, sneezes, or talks. There are different types of the flu virus so symptoms can vary, which is why flu season can feel different from one year to the next. 

Unlike a cold, flu symptoms usually start suddenly and can include ^{Footnote [2]}:

• a sudden high temperature
• an aching body
• feeling tired or exhausted
• a dry cough
• a sore throat
• a headache
• difficulty sleeping
• loss of appetite.

Some symptoms, like feeling tired or weak, can last for several weeks even after the main illness feels better.

Flu often gets better on its own, but everyone recovers at a different pace. Ask for an urgent GP appointment or contact NHS 111 if your symptoms haven’t improved after seven days ^{Footnote [2]}. Get help sooner if you feel very unwell or are more likely to become seriously ill from flu, for example if you have a long term medical condition or have a weakened immune system. 

You’re most likely to spread the flu virus in the first 3 to 5 days of feeling poorly ^{Footnote [3]}. To help stop germs circulating, wash your hands often, and cover your mouth. If you're caught out without a tissue, always try to sneeze or cough into the crook of your elbow rather than your hand. This just stops you from getting germs on your hands, and then spreading them through touching surfaces. The best thing you can do, is try to stay home until you feel better.

You can't avoid every flu virus, but a few simple habits can lower your risk. Wash your hands often, avoid touching your eyes and nose, and don't share household items with someone who is unwell. A seasonal flu vaccine can also help protect people who are eligible. 

Rest is one of the best ways to help your body fight off cold and flu. Drinking warm drinks and breathing in steam can relieve a blocked nose and soothe your throat. Over-the-counter cold and flu medicines may also help ease aches and fever.

Antibiotics don’t work against viruses like cold and flu. They are only used to treat bacterial infections. Using antibiotics when they aren’t needed can lead to resistance, making them less effective in the future. 

The flu vaccine is available free on the NHS for people who are at higher risk of becoming seriously ill from flu. It's best to get the jab in early autumn before flu season starts, as immunity takes a couple of weeks to build. You may be eligible for a free flu vaccine if you're:

• aged 65 or over
• aged between 6 months and 65 years old with certain medical conditions
• living with someone who is immunocompromised
• a frontline health or social care worker
• pregnant
• a child aged 2 or 3 years old
• a school-aged child (reception to Year 11), who can receive a nasal spray vaccine through school immunisation teams ^{Footnote [3]}       

The rules can change, so check the latest NHS guidance or ask your pharmacist or GP. If you can't get a free NHS vaccine, ask a pharmacist or GP about the options available to you.

If you or someone you care for experiences serious symptoms - like difficulty breathing, chest pain, severe weakness, confusion, or a persistent high fever - it’s important to get medical help straight away by calling 999 or going to A&E. These signs could suggest complications like Pneumonia, which needs urgent care.

You can find your nearest A&E here.

If you have Aviva health insurance, you can access helpful support during cold and flu season. Our wellbeing services offer expert advice and guidance to keep you healthy. Plus, with Aviva Digital GP* appointments, you can see a doctor from home, saving time and the hassle of going out when you’re not feeling your best.

*Non-contractual benefit which can be changed or withdrawn at any time.