High street healthcare retailer Superdrug has reported a staggering 319% spike in sales of its Covid lateral flow tests, coupled with a 297% increase in sales of cold and flu relief sachets, indicating a significant rise in illness across the UK this summer. In addition, the retailer has seen a surge in sales of vitamins that support immunity, with Vitamin D sales rising by 116% and Zinc by 58%.
Link to Major Public Gatherings
The surge in illness coincides with large crowds gathering in pubs and homes to watch events like the Euros and Wimbledon. The latest data shows an increase in the rate of people testing positive for Covid-19 in hospitals, rising from 3.72 per 100,000 to 4.35 per 100,000.
Mark Woolhouse, a professor of infectious disease epidemiology at the University of Edinburgh, explained to Sky News: “The waves continue to be driven by a combination of new variants and a partial waning immunity to infection.”
Distinguishing Covid-19 from the Common Cold
With Covid-19 and the common cold presenting similar symptoms of Covid-19 such as a sore throat, blocked nose, headache, and cough, distinguishing between the two can be challenging. Niamh McMillan, Superdrug’s Pharmacy Superintendent, advised: “With Covid causing a range of respiratory symptoms, individuals should be aware of the distinct characteristics that may differentiate a summer cold from one associated with this virus. If you have a persistent cough, shortness of breath, and loss of taste or smell, it might be time to investigate further and potentially take a Covid test.”
Key Symptoms of Covid-19
A high fever is more commonly associated with Covid-19. Summer colds might cause a mild fever, but it is typically lower than those seen in Covid-19 cases.
Anosmia, or loss of taste or smell, is a well-known symptom of Covid-19 and is rarely seen with summer colds.
Covid-19 often causes extreme fatigue and body aches. While summer colds can cause tiredness, the level of fatigue is usually less severe in comparison.
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath is more specific to Covid-19, particularly in more severe cases.
Duration of Symptoms
symptoms of Covid-19 may last longer and change over time. In contrast, a summer cold typically resolves within a week to ten days.
As Covid-19 continues to spread and new variants emerge, it remains essential for individuals to stay vigilant and informed about the symptoms of the virus. The recent surge in sales of Covid-19 tests and cold remedies highlights the importance of distinguishing between Covid-19 and common colds to ensure appropriate treatment and care. Monitoring symptoms closely and seeking medical advice when necessary can help manage and mitigate the impact of Covid-19 during this period of increased illness.
