Key sign your ‘hay fever' is actually new Covid strain as doctor reveals how to spot different symptoms
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BRITS sneezing through summer could be facing more than just pollen.
A new Covid strain is sweeping across the UK, and some of its symptoms are almost identical to hay fever, making it tricky to tell which one you've got.
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Covid often leaves people feeling drained and seriously unwell, while hay fever – annoying as it is – tends to be milder
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The warning comes as the Met Office reports "very high" pollen levels across much of the country, while health officials confirm a near 10 per cent rise in Covid-related hospital admissions in England.
Areas like London, Manchester, and Birmingham are particularly affected.
Hay fever and Covid-19 can both cause sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, headaches, and even a loss of smell.
But while hay fever is triggered by an allergic reaction to pollen, Covid is caused by a viral infection – and that difference can be crucial.
Dr Luke Powles, Bupa's Associate Clinical Director, explains: "Despite hay fever being more common during the spring and summer, some people are affected by pollen from March to September.
This can make it harder to tell if sniffs and sneezes are being caused by an allergy or an infection such as coronavirus."
The latest Covid variant, known as NB.1.8.1 or "Nimbus", is fuelling the surge. NHS data shows 947 people were admitted to hospital with Covid in the week ending 31 May.
So, what's the key symptom to watch for? A high temperature. This is common with Covid, but not with hay fever.
The NHS says a fever means "you feel hot to touch on your chest or back (you do not need to measure your temperature)".
Dr Powles confirms: "It is not likely for you to experience a raised temperature as a result of hay fever."
And while hay fever can affect smell and taste, he says, "completely losing your ability to taste or smell is more likely to result from coronavirus."
Another clue is how unwell you feel.
Covid often leaves people feeling drained and seriously unwell, while hay fever – annoying as it is – tends to be milder.
"Hay fever symptoms aren't usually serious and, generally, you won't feel too ill," says Dr Powles.
Covid, however, can have longer-lasting effects.
The NHS warns some people suffer from symptoms for weeks or even months – a condition known as long Covid.
The illness can also cause stomach problems like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea – not something you'd get with hay fever.
Fatigue, body aches and chills are also more likely to point to Covid than seasonal allergies.
While hay fever typically affects the eyes and nose, Covid can have a much broader impact on the body.
Experts are urging the public not to ignore the signs.
If you suddenly feel worse than a typical allergy bout, or develop unusual symptoms like fever or stomach upset, it's best to err on the side of caution.
"If you're unsure whether you're suffering from hay fever or Covid, it's wise to limit contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable," said a spokesperson for the NHS.
Lateral flow tests are still available at some pharmacies or online, though not always free.
Taking a test can help clear up the confusion and stop the virus from spreading further.
Doctors also remind people that Covid symptoms can vary widely. Not everyone gets a cough or fever, and some only experience mild cold-like issues.
That's why knowing your own health history and spotting any changes is key.
List of hayfever symptoms Sneezing Runny or blocked nose Itchy nose, throat, mouth, or ears Watery, red or itchy eyes Post-nasal drip (mucus dripping down the throat) Cough (often caused by post-nasal drip) Loss of smell or reduced sense of smell Headache or facial pain (due to sinus congestion) Feeling tired or fatigued Earache or popping sensation in the ears
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