Flu cases are soaring in England, with NHS hospitals tackling five times more cases than this time last year.
In only 20 days, hospital admissions have rocketed by two-and-a-half times, with many of those patients receiving care in Manchester and Trafford hospitals. Notably, the Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust hospitals are currently tending to 76 adults and five children struck down with flu as of December 15—a stark increase outstripping numbers seen in any recent winter.
Across the region, folks are left scratching their heads, wondering whether they've got a severe case of the sniffles or the full-blown flu. Ste from Prestwich told MEN: "I started with a painful sore throat, which is often how I start with a cold, on Sunday. I tried using Vicks First Defence but it did nothing for me, felt really achy and shivering by that night.
"I felt pretty wiped out with it on Monday, started work but clocked off at 12 and went to bed, got up at 4 and felt worse. I also had stomach pains at times.
"It carried on Monday and Tuesday, and eased off later on Tuesday. I've been coughing, sneezing a bit since. I'd say it's the worst cold I've had in years and far worse than any time I've had Covid, except the first time pre-vaccine. The worst bit was Sunday to Tuesday. I still have a cough now but I'm past the worst of it."
English NHS hospitals overall had an average of 2,629 flu patients between December 9 and 15 this year. This time last year, there were five times fewer flu patients, averaging just 566. In 2022, there were an average of 1,657 flu patients and in 2021, there were a mere 31.
But like so many other people, Ste said: "I'm never really sure what counts as flu." Doctor of pharmacy at the Universal Drugstore, Dr Jamie Winn, answered the most common questions about cold and flu season, in a bid to help people get to know the signs and symptoms. Dr Wynn said: "Viruses that cause flu and the common cold thrive in cold temperatures, meaning cases are more likely to rise as we head into the winter months.
"Studies show viruses, especially flu, travel better in dry air, and colder temperatures mean dryer air. Alongside this temperature change, less sunlight means people get less Vitamin D which can help to protect the immune system and protect from respiratory viruses.
"With the festive season, we also see an increase in travel which can help to spread any cold and flu viruses around the country. People also tend to increase their alcohol consumption at this time of year, something which can lower the immune system and make us more susceptible to catching viruses.
"There are many different strains of the flu virus and these are constantly evolving, that's why it's important to stay on top of flu vaccinations as they update each year." Some strains of flu and the common cold can be worse than others and this can be based on lots of different factors such as if you've had that strain before and if your immune system is used to it, some strains mutate more rapidly than others, outsmarting vaccines and treatments, and some strains may transmit more easily.
"Both the common cold and flu are contagious and are transmitted through tiny droplets in the air, usually passed on through coughs, sneezes, and talking. These viruses can actually survive on surfaces, with flu lasting for up to 48 hours on hard surfaces.
"People will be most contagious with the flu three to four days after their symptoms begin, but you can transmit it before you even feel sick. In order to help prevent the spread, it's important to practice good hygiene such as hand washing and using tissues, avoid close contact with others if you have symptoms, and ensure the space you're in is well ventilated."
Each virus usually presents with slightly different symptoms with typical flu symptoms including a high fever, body aches, and chills. Alternatively, the common cold usually causes a productive cough, sore throat, and nasal congestion. Dr Winn added: "Flu vaccinations are incredibly important, not just for yourself but also for community protection. A regular flu jab will stop you from getting sick and can prevent further complications- it also carries the benefit of keeping your immunity high against new strains."
To treat symptoms you can look at using common over-the-counter medications. Acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help with headaches, muscle aches, and fever. Guaifenesin can loosen mucus to clear your airways. Pseudoephedrine can help with a stuffy nose while an antihistamine such as chlorpheniramine can stop a runny nose.
And if you are coughing, look for products with dextromethorphan. With either the flu or a cold, consider visiting a doctor if your symptoms persist for over a week or if you have a high temperature, difficulty breathing, or other signs of infection. ".