'Worst cold ever' sweeping UK as sufferers say they have never had a cold like it

Brits across the nation are battling what's being dubbed as 'the worst cold ever' with many reporting severe symptoms. This autumn season has been particularly harsh, introducing a plethora of respiratory illnesses. While common during colder months, some sufferers are saying that this year's viruses are unparalleled in severity.

The UK Health Security Agency is also on high alert due to increasing instances of flu and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). Social media platform Reddit is buzzing with conversations about the nationwide affliction. In the r/CasualUK subreddit, one user posted: "Something is definitely going around, and I know how much us Brits love to say that phrase. How do you beat the flu?"

The experience appears to be widespread, with numerous others sharing their struggles with the virus and commenting they've "never had a cold like it", the Express reports.

Reddit user u/kijenti noted the effect on local communities and supplies in shops, saying: "I certainly have been, as have the family and my colleagues. Surest sign is going into a supermarket and to where all the paracetamol and Lemsip stuff is - shelves had been cleared out the other day. It certainly is going around."

Echoing concerns about COVID, u/lampjambiscuit mentioned: "Another round of COVID is going about here. Practically everyone I know has had it in the last month."

One user, u/rowmyownboat, shared their experience with the illness, saying: "I had it a couple of weeks ago. It was as bad as any cold/flu I have ever had. Yet it kicked off with a wicked sore throat. The sneezes were biblical - violent enough to tear those muscles between your ribs, so days of painful sneezing."

Another user, u/stinglikeameg, described their symptoms, saying: "I've had a sore throat for a week that's like swallowing glass. Can't eat, can't sleep, as the pain is so bad. Never known anything like it."

According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), Covid rates decreased slightly last week, but flu cases increased, as did RSV. The agency noted that children under five were particularly affected, which may be due to the start of the new nursery term and the return to school after half term.

Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, commented: "This week's data shows that while the three main respiratory infections remain at low levels, there have been significant increases in RSV activity, particularly among those aged 5 years and under. We expect to see continued increases in respiratory virus activity in the coming weeks."

He added: "Vaccinations are offered against flu, COVID-19 and RSV and we urge those eligible to take up the vaccines ahead of the peak season to ensure they are protected heading into the winter months."

"Our current surveillance shows that around 13% of sequenced COVID-19 cases are the 'XEC' lineage however current information doesn't suggest we should be more concerned about this variant. We are monitoring this closely and vaccination still offers the best protection."

"If you are showing symptoms of flu or COVID-19 such as a high temperature, cough, and feeling tired and achy, try to limit your contact with others, especially those who are vulnerable. Washing your hands regularly and using tissues can reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses."