Flu cases are climbing sharply across Wales this winter, with health experts warning that vulnerable groups should take practical steps to protect themselves.
Public Health Wales says Influenza A is spreading quickly, echoing figures from Scotland where cases jumped 45% in a single week. Doctors are urging people to stay vigilant as symptoms of colds, flu and Covid‑19 overlap, making it harder to know what illness you’re fighting.
Spotting the difference
Dr Nabil Jarad, Consultant Respiratory Physician at Spire Bristol Hospital, explained:
“A sore throat, cough and runny nose are symptoms most people recognise as having a cold or the flu. However, telling whether you have one or the other is often more challenging.”
He added:
“Both the flu and colds are caused by viruses that infect your upper respiratory system — this includes your nose, mouth and throat. The symptoms of a cold and the flu overlap, which is why it is easy to confuse the two conditions.”
Colds usually come on gradually, with mild coughs, sneezing, headaches and tiredness. They are most often caused by rhinoviruses and typically clear within 7–10 days.
Flu, by contrast, hits harder and faster.
Dr Jarad noted:
“Symptoms usually come on faster than with a cold and are more severe. Systemic symptoms, such as fever, lethargy, muscle ache and loss of appetite, are normally seen in flu but not in the common cold.”
Flu sufferers often experience stronger body aches, fever and loss of appetite, alongside a dry, hacking cough. Recovery usually takes one to two weeks.
Vaccine effectiveness
At the same time, new research published this week shows the flu vaccine is offering strong protection, especially for children.
The study, carried out in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, found this year’s jab is 72% effective in preventing hospital admissions among 2‑17 year olds. That’s crucial, as children and adolescents are currently seeing the highest infection rates.
For adults aged 65 and over, the vaccine is 34% effective against hospitalisation — comparable to previous years. Results mirror findings in England, where effectiveness was 74% in children and around 33–39% in adults.
Parents are being urged to get children vaccinated even if they missed school immunisation teams. Protection develops within 14 days, so uptake before Christmas is vital.
Winter well‑being
Public Health Wales has also issued practical advice to stay safe this winter:
- Make a winter plan and keep emergency contacts handy.
- Heat lived‑in rooms to at least 18°C and eat warm meals.
- Use NHS 111 online and pharmacies for care, and order prescriptions early.
- Stay connected — check in on neighbours and family.
- Reduce infection risk with handwashing, ventilation, and staying home when unwell.
Who’s most at risk?
Older adults, care home residents, and people with long‑term conditions such as respiratory disease, diabetes and heart disease are most vulnerable to serious flu outcomes. Adults with chronic liver disease face a 48‑fold increased risk, while those with weakened immune systems are 45 times more likely to suffer severe illness.
The bottom line
With flu cases surging and symptoms overlapping with Covid‑19, experts say vaccination remains the best defence. For children in particular, the jab is proving highly effective at keeping them out of hospital — and could be the difference between a miserable winter and a safe one.
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