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The NHS has identified a crucial symptom that distinguishes flu from a common cold, as experts have warned of a "concerning rise" in cases. According to the health service, flu cases are presently three times higher than at the same point last year. Specialists have explained that the flu season has arrived "more than a month earlier" than typical. Data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) revealed that flu cases climbed from 6.1 per cent to 8.2 per cent. This surge is primarily attributed to a sharp increase amongst school-age children, NHS England stated. Consequently, health officials are encouraging eligible people - including certain children - to receive their flu vaccination. Duncan Burton, chief nursing officer for England, said: "This early rise of flu in children is particularly concerning – especially given that flu circulation in children normally precedes that in adults – so it's vitally important those eligible come forward for their vaccine as soon as possible to avoid a long and drawn-out flu season. "The flu virus changes every year, so it's important to get a vaccination each year to ensure yours and your families protection and to help reduce the spread to others. "Vaccines are one of the safest and most effective ways to help shield against the virus and prepare for what we expect to be a very challenging winter, so I would urge everyone eligible to come forward for their jabs as soon as they can, with easy to book appointments or drop-in sessions now available closer to home." Distinguishing between a cold and the flu can be challenging as symptoms often overlap. However, there are certain indicators that can help differentiate the two. The NHS explains on its website : "Cold and flu symptoms are similar, but flu tends to be more severe." A key sign that you might have the flu instead of a cold is if you "feel exhausted and too unwell to carry on as normal". In contrast, a cold may make you feel under the weather , "but you still feel well enough to do your normal activities", according to the NHS. Other notable differences include the onset of symptoms; flu symptoms appear rapidly within a few hours, whereas a cold develops gradually. Additionally, the flu impacts "more than just your nose and throat", while a cold primarily affects these areas. The NHS outlines the following as symptoms of the flu: If you have a high temperature or feel too unwell to carry out your usual activities, the NHS advises you to "try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people". To minimise the risk of spreading the flu, you should: To expedite your recovery, you should: The NHS further advises that you should dial 111 or arrange an urgent GP appointment if you or your child exhibit flu symptoms and: For additional information, visit the NHS website here .
