Individuals exhibiting three specific symptoms are being advised to wear face masks when venturing out to help curb the spread of winter illnesses. The prevalence of flu and Covid-19 tends to increase during the colder months, as people spend more time indoors where close contact facilitates virus transmission.

According to recent figures from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), flu cases are on the rise in the UK, following an early onset of the season. Projections suggest that cases will continue to climb in the coming weeks, as flu usually reaches its peak during winter. The UKHSA is urging everyone over 65, pregnant women, and those with certain chronic health conditions to receive their flu vaccination to reduce the risk of severe illness.

Furthermore, health officials are advising that anyone experiencing three primary symptoms of flu or Covid-19—namely a high temperature, a cough, and fatigue or body aches—should wear a face mask in public to prevent spreading the virus.

Flu and Covid-19 can manifest with a wider range of symptoms, including headaches, sore throats, loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhea, and congestion. It is advisable to limit interaction with others and stay home until you recover if you experience any of these symptoms.

In the most recent winter surveillance update from UKHSA, Dr. Jamie Lopez Bernal, a consultant epidemiologist, noted: “Flu is continuing to rise among younger individuals, despite the school half-term break. While the break may have temporarily slowed the spread, we anticipate a further increase as schools and workplaces reopen.

“With this ongoing upward trend, it’s crucial for those eligible for a free flu vaccine to get vaccinated. Vaccination remains the most effective defense against severe illness and hospitalization. Eligible individuals can schedule their appointments via the NHS national booking system, and parents should ensure they complete school consent forms or arrange GP appointments for their children.”

“Anyone with flu or COVID-19 symptoms – including high temperature, cough, and feeling tired or achy – should minimise contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable. If you need to go out with symptoms, consider wearing a face covering, wash hands regularly and ensure indoor spaces are well ventilated.”

According to the NHS, the following 10 health conditions mean that you are eligible to receive the flu vaccine for free this year and should book an appointment:

• conditions that affect your breathing, such as asthma (needing a steroid inhaler or tablets), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or cystic fibrosis
• heart conditions, such as coronary heart disease or heart failure
• chronic kidney disease
• liver disease, such as cirrhosis or hepatitis
• some conditions that affect your brain or nerves, such as Parkinson’s disease, motor neurone disease, multiple sclerosis or cerebral palsy
• diabetes or Addison’s disease
• a weakened immune system due to a condition such as HIV or AIDS, or due to a treatment such as chemotherapy or steroid medicine
• problems with your spleen, such as sickle cell disease, or if you’ve had your spleen removed
• a learning disability
• being very overweight – a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or above

If you have a health condition that is not included on this list and you’re not sure if you are eligible for the flu jab, the NHS advises speaking to your GP surgery to check.