COVID Symptoms in the UK: What to Look for and What to Do

Feeling off and not sure if it’s just a sniffle or something more? In the UK we’ve seen waves of coronavirus, and knowing the right signs can save you time and health. Below we break down the symptoms you really need to watch, how they stack up against a regular cold, and the steps to take if you think it’s COVID.

The most common signs to watch

Most people with COVID notice a mix of these three symptoms first: a sudden loss of taste or smell, a dry cough that sticks around, and a fever over 37.8°C (100°F). Unlike a typical cold, the loss of taste or smell often appears without any nasal blockage. Fatigue can hit hard too—often making you feel wiped out after just a short walk.

Other tell‑tale signs show up later: sore throat, headache, muscle aches, and shortness of breath. If you develop chest tightness or trouble breathing, that’s a red flag and you should seek medical help right away. In the UK, the NHS advises you to call 111 if breathing gets tough.

COVID vs. a regular cold – Spot the differences

Both illnesses can give you a runny nose and a cough, but the timing and intensity differ. Colds usually start slowly, with a sore throat first, and the fever is either low or absent. COVID often hits you with a high fever early on, and the loss of taste/smell is rare in colds.

Another clue: colds tend to improve after a few days, while COVID symptoms can bounce around for a week or more, sometimes getting worse after the initial few days. If you’ve been around someone who tested positive, even a mild runny nose should make you think twice.

Because symptoms overlap, the safest bet is to get a rapid test if you’re unsure. In the UK you can order a free lateral flow test online, drop it off at a pharmacy, or book a PCR at a local test centre.

When you test positive, isolate for at least 5 days (or longer if symptoms persist) and inform close contacts. The NHS guidance also recommends keeping a symptom diary to track any changes. If you feel unwell after the isolation period, a quick check‑in with your GP can help rule out lingering issues.

Staying ahead of the virus is easier when you know what to expect. Keep a stash of masks, wash your hands often, and ventilate indoor spaces. If you notice any of the key COVID signs, act fast: test, isolate, and let others know.