As we head into winter, and with children back to school, and more workplaces open, lots of people will be getting usual colds and flu. This is now made more difficult with potential COVID-19 symptoms added to the list.

With the common cold and flu season now upon us, it can be difficult to know the difference between what could be COVID-19 symptoms, and what could just be a cold.

They are all caused by different viruses, but have similar symptoms. As these symptoms overlap, it can sometimes be confusing what you may be suffering from.

Remember: symptoms of COVID-19 are a high temperature, a new, continuous cough, and a loss/change to sense of smell or taste.

For assistance, we have utilised information from the NHS to produce the below table of symptoms: 

If for any reason you begin to feel unwell, and are worried about any of your symptoms, you can get help and advice from:

• a pharmacy – pharmacists can give treatment advice for a range of minor illnesses and can tell you if you need to see a doctor
• your GP – you may be able to speak to a GP online or over the phone, or go in for an appointment if they think you need to
• NHS 111 – go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111 if you have an urgent medical problem and you're not sure what to do