Is It A Cold... Or Covid?

Is your cough just a harmless winter bug? Or is it something more serious? Here’s what to watch for and what to do

- Tanya Pearey

This time of year is always rife with coughs and sniffles, but now there’s an added worry – could it be Covid? It’s difficult to tell whether that sore throat is just part of a cold, or the shivers the onset of the flu because all respiratory illnesses have similar symptoms as our immune systems kick into action and start to fight them.

The only way to be sure is to have a Covid test. If you have any of the three main symptoms (see box), you should self-isolate and call your GP surgery immediately for a free NHS coronavirus test. You can apply for one online at gov.uk/getcoronavirus-test. You, and those you live with, shouldn’t leave home (except to take the test) or see anyone until you get your test result.

How to fight back

There are plenty of ways to keep your immune system healthy so you’re in good shape to fight off any infection. Chief among them is regular exercise. ‘You need to be moving regularly throughout the day,’ advises immunologist Dr Jenna Macciochi. ‘Movement gets your lymphatic system going, which is the superhighway of your immune system.’ Moving also builds muscle, which is essential for healthy immunity, especially the thymus gland in your neck, which is important for immunity-boosting T cells.

A healthy, well-balanced diet is key. Make sure it has plenty of vitamin C – good sources include citrus fruits, broccoli, sprouts, and green and red peppers. ‘When we’re fighting an infection, our needs increase dramatically because our immune cells use a lot of it,’ says Dr Macciochi.