How to tell the difference between Covid symptoms and a common cold

Researchers have found that there is one key symptom that can help people determine whether they are sick with Covid-19 or just a common cold.

Since the pandemic began, there has been confusion over what the symptoms of Covid are, as they seem to be becoming more varied all the time - this has made it hard for people to know whether they have caught the virus.

Following the vaccination programme, the confusion has only increased, as Covid symptoms in people who have been fully vaccinated are very similar to those seen with a cold.

As reported by the Daily Record, these include a sore throat, excessive sneezing and a runny nose.

Researchers at King's College London, however, have discovered one key symptom that can help determine whether or not you have Covid.

The scientists, who carried out the research for the ZOE Covid Symptom study, found that loss of smell or taste remains among the most significant predictors of the virus.

They say an easy way to test your sense of smell is by sniffing strong-scented products, or checking whether familiar foods begin to smell or taste different.

Coughing is a common symptom both in Covid-19 and a common cold (Getty)

Millions of people have been logging their symptoms, tests and vaccines on the UK ZOE COVID Symptom Study app since it was launched.

Thanks to health reports, scientists now know there are more than 20 symptoms of Covid-19, including headache, runny nose, sneezing and sore throat.

Common Covid-19 symptoms in people fully vaccinated

Data as of September 2021:

• Runny nose

• Headache

• Sneezing

• Sore throat

• Loss of smell (anosmia)

Common Covid-19 symptoms if you’re unvaccinated

• Headache

• Runny Nose

• Sore Throat

• Fever

• Persistent cough

Loss of smell (anosmia) comes further down the list for unvaccinated people, but it’s still an important predictor of having COVID-19 rather than a regular cold.

Common cold symptoms

• Blocked or runny nose
• Sore throat
• Headaches
• Muscle aches
• Coughs
• Sneezing
• Raised temperature
• Pressure in your ears and face

Don't mistake Covid for a cold

Remember, if you have a new and continuous cough, a fever (temperature above 37.8C), or you have noticed a change to your sense of taste or smell you must get a Covid PCR test immediately.