Flu cases are surging across the UK, with an average of 2,660 flu patients hospitalised daily in England during the week ending December 7. This represents a 55% increase from 1,717 the previous week.

Other viruses are currently doing the rounds, and with colds also widespread throughout the winter period, it can be difficult to distinguish which ailment you're suffering from. Here is some guidance on identifying the key differences to help you protect your health and maintain your family's wellbeing during the colder months.

Both colds and flu are respiratory conditions but stem from different viruses. "Colds are predominantly caused by viruses, with rhinovirus being the most common perpetrator," explains Dr Naveed Asif, GP at The London General Practice. "Whereas, the flu is specifically caused by influenza viruses, primarily types A and B."

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Because of this you can actually contract both a cold and flu simultaneously. Asif added: "It is possible to be infected with both a cold and the flu simultaneously, as they are caused by different viruses.

"Both have peaks during the cold season and can run your immune system down, making you susceptible to further infections. Both the common cold and the flu are highly contagious respiratory illnesses spread through direct contact and respiratory droplets.

"Transmission occurs when virus-laden droplets are expelled during coughing, sneezing, or talking, landing in the mouths or noses of nearby individuals. In poorly ventilated situations, these droplets can travel longer distances. Infection can also occur by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face."

Cold vs flu symptoms

"A common cold typically presents with a runny or blocked nose, sneezing, a sore throat, mild cough and mild fatigue," clarifies Dr Claire Agathou, GP and co-founder of the A–Z General Practice at The Wellington Hospital, part of HCA Healthcare UK. "Meanwhile, flu typically causes a sudden onset of fever, severe tiredness and weakness, muscle and joint aches, a headache, a dry cough, chills (feeling shivery and sweats), a loss of appetite and sometimes diarrhoea.

"The key difference is that flu tends to come on suddenly and much more severely, whereas cold symptoms are milder and develop more gradually."

Can a cold or flu trigger other illnesses or complications?

"While colds are generally mild and self-limiting, both colds and flu can lead to complications such as sinusitis, ear infections, chest infections, and worsening of underlying health conditions," notes Agathou. "Flu can cause pneumonia, hospital admission, and serious illness in vulnerable groups. However, even those who are normally well can become very unwell so it's important to contact your GP promptly to discuss your symptoms if you feel unwell or are concerned about your symptoms."

How to treat flu

"Both are mainly managed with rest, fluids and symptom relief such as paracetamol," explains Agathou. "However, in higher-risk groups, antiviral medication may be prescribed for flu if started early. Antibiotics are not effective for either unless there is a secondary bacterial infection."

When will I feel better?

"A cold usually settles within seven to 10 days, but flu recovery often takes one to two weeks, with fatigue sometimes lasting longer," observes Agathou.

How can I avoid catching colds and flu?

"The single most effective protection against flu is the annual flu vaccine, particularly for vulnerable groups, but other preventive steps for both flu and a common cold include regular handwashing and staying home when unwell," recommends Agathou. "I'd also recommend avoiding touching the face, covering any coughs and sneezes and making sure indoor spaces are well ventilated."

Who is eligible for the flu vaccine in the UK?

"The free NHS flu vaccine is offered annually to adults aged 65 and over, pregnant women, children aged two-three years and school-aged children (reception years to Year 11), people aged six months to 64 years with eligible long-term conditions, people with learning disabilities, carers, frontline health and social care workers, and care home residents and staff," says Agathou. "Household contacts of immunocompromised individuals are also eligible.

"However, people who are not eligible for a free NHS vaccine can still access the flu jab privately. If you are unsure, speak to your GP or local pharmacist."