As children settle back into school routines after the half-term break, classrooms and nurseries often become hotspots for circulating winter viruses. Close contact and developing immune systems make youngsters particularly susceptible to illness. Understanding whether you or your child has flu or a common cold is crucial for effective treatment and knowing when to seek professional medical advice.
Key Differences: Flu vs Cold Symptoms
The NHS emphasises that flu symptoms typically appear very quickly, unlike cold symptoms which develop gradually. Recognising this distinction can help you respond appropriately to the illness.
NHS-Listed Flu Symptoms
According to the latest NHS guidance, flu symptoms include:
- A sudden high temperature
- An aching body
- A dry cough
- Sore throat
- Feeling tired or exhausted
- Headache
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhoea or tummy pain
- Difficulty sleeping
- Feeling sick and being sick
Children with flu may also experience ear pain and appear less active than usual. The recommended treatment involves staying warm, getting plenty of rest and sleep, and taking paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce temperature and ease aches.
Managing Cold Symptoms at Home
Cold symptoms differ from flu and usually include:
- A blocked or runny nose
- Cough
- Sneezing
- Hoarse voice
- Sore throat
- General tiredness and feeling unwell
- High temperature
- Aching muscles
- Pressure in your ears and face
- Loss of taste and smell
Most colds can be managed at home without needing to visit a GP. The NHS recommends staying hydrated, getting plenty of rest, and eating nutritious meals. Hot lemon with honey can soothe a sore throat, while steam inhalation might help clear a blocked nose.
When to Seek Medical Help for Flu
The NHS advises contacting your GP or using NHS 111 if you or your child has flu symptoms and falls into any of these categories:
- You're concerned about your baby's or child's symptoms
- You're aged 65 or over
- You're pregnant
- You have a long-term medical condition such as diabetes, or conditions affecting your heart, lungs, kidneys, brain or nerves
- You have a weakened immune system due to chemotherapy or HIV
- Symptoms haven't improved after seven days
Call 999 or go to A&E immediately if you experience sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing, or cough up a significant amount of blood. For children experiencing discomfort, you can administer paracetamol or ibuprofen, but always check the packaging for suitability and consult a pharmacist or GP if unsure. Both children and adults should drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration – a good indicator is urine that appears clear or almost clear.
