Spring is in the air, but winter bugs are still about

Does warmer weather mean fewer viruses?

After months of cold UK weather - braving rain, wind, sleet, and snow - many of us are already planning our spring wardrobes or looking forward to spending more time outdoors. With Jack Frost no longer nipping at our noses and fewer of us huddled together inside, it’s easy to assume winter sniffles are yesterday’s problem.

However, Sue Hampshire, Associate Medical Director at St John Ambulance, warns that despite the first signs of spring, seasonal bugs and illnesses are still affecting many people.

“The cold weather hasn’t gone away,” she explains. “That’s why it’s still important to look out for those who may be vulnerable and, where possible, make sure they are safe and well.

“Ask yourself - have you seen them recently? Are their lights on? These are simple but important questions to keep in mind.”

While viruses tend to spread more easily in colder weather - and less so when we’re not in such close contact with one another - it’s still important to recognise the symptoms. Doing so can help stop the spread, allow you to recover more quickly, and reduce the chance of passing illness on to others.

Spotting symptoms early doesn't just help you get back on your feet - it keeps your community healthy.

Hampshire explains that the most common bugs people catch at this time of year are colds, coughs, and flu. As these vary in how serious they are and how easily they spread, it’s important to understand the differences - both to protect yourself and to help safeguard the health of those around you.

Recognising cold symptoms

The common cold is passed on when tiny germs are released into the air from your coughs or sneezes.

A cold usually begins with a blocked or runny nose and frequent sneezing. You might develop a scratchy or painful throat, a cough, and a raised temperature, leaving you feeling generally under the weather.

You may also experience aching muscles, a reduced sense of taste or smell, pressure in your face, or sinus discomfort, and, in some cases, a fever.

Hampshire advises that if you catch a cold, you should prioritise plenty of rest and fluids.

“Stay at home and avoid contact with others if you have a temperature or feel unwell,” she says. “If needed, take paracetamol or ibuprofen. A hot lemon and honey drink may soothe a sore throat.”

Recognising flu symptoms

Flu (influenza) can look like a bad cold at first, but it usually hits harder and develops much more rapidly. In addition to cold-like symptoms, you may experience extreme tiredness (fatigue), sickness (nausea), reduced appetite, headaches, and, in some cases, diarrhoea.

Since the flu is caused by a virus, antibiotics won’t help treat it. The safest course is to stay home and rest until you start to recover.

“Sleep, keep warm, drink plenty, and take pain relief when needed,” says Hampshire.

Recognising norovirus symptoms

Norovirus - often called the ‘winter vomiting bug’ - is actually more contagious than both colds and flu. Despite its name, you can get it at any time of the year.

This stomach virus is passed through contact with infected poo (faeces). You can catch it by being near someone who is infected, touching contaminated surfaces or objects, eating food prepared by an infected person, or consuming contaminated food or water.

“If you have norovirus, symptoms can include feeling sick, being sick, diarrhoea, aches and pains, and a high temperature,” says Hampshire. “You should rest and drink lots of fluids, taking small sips if you feel sick to avoid dehydration.”

She advises staying at home until you haven’t been sick or had diarrhoea for at least two days. Most people find that their symptoms begin to ease within two to three days.

Although it’s impossible to completely avoid catching common viruses, there are steps you can take to help protect your health.

Hampshire suggests keeping your vaccinations up to date, staying warm, making sure your home is well-insulated, and checking that your appliances are safe.

“We recognise that many people are currently facing financial difficulties,” Hampshire notes. “If this applies to you, look for libraries or churches that provide both warmth and company.”

You can also check your local council’s website for nearby warm spaces or community hubs. Warm Welcome UK is another useful resource for finding places to stay warm in your area.

“Keeping over-the-counter medicines in case of ill health is useful,” says Hampshire. “This includes painkillers and cold and cough treatments."