The symptom when you eat that means it could be Covid rather than flu

Brits are being warned that a particular symptom experienced while eating could be indicative of Covid-19, distinguishing it from other common winter illnesses. Amid a rise in viral infections, the UK government has updated its guidance on how to tell the difference between the various viruses circulating this season.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) notes that every winter sees "high levels" of influenza, RSV, Covid-19, and norovirus, making it difficult to distinguish between them without recognising specific symptoms. With Covid cases still widespread, the latest advice from the government agency is especially important.

According to the most recent UKHSA data, there were 1,069 confirmed cases of Covid in the week ending December 11, marking a 1.6 percent decrease from the previous week. However, there has been an increase in both deaths and hospitalisations related to Covid.

In the week ending December 6, there were 107 deaths, an increase of 8.1 percent, and hospital admissions rose by 1.5 percent with 1,085 incidents recorded in the week leading up to November 30. Despite the removal of mandatory self-isolation rules for those testing positive for Covid after the national lockdowns, NHS guidelines still recommend staying at home if symptomatic and minimising contact with others, as reported by the Mirror.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has warned of a key symptoms to be aware of which may indicate a Covid infection. Among these, the loss or alteration in taste or smell is particularly important.

As with any evolving virus, symptoms have shifted over time as indicated by the latest update from the UKHSA. The experts have drawn attention to the fact that while many people experience cold-like symptoms,