The new XEC variant of Covid-19 is spreading across the UK, while cases of respiratory syncytial virus or RSV are also on the rise as we head into flu season

The new Covid XEC variant is spreading across the UK, with symptoms that can be easily confused with flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) - but doctors say there is a specific order to look out f

Symptoms of the Covid-19 variant include: A high temperature or shivering (chills) – a high temperature means you feel hot to touch on your chest or back (you do not need to measure your temperature) A new, continuous cough – this means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or three or more coughing episodes in 24 hours

A new study has identified the key order of Covid-19 symptoms, which is crucial in distinguishing it from the flu and other respiratory illnesses

The new XEC Covid strain is believed to be similar to previous variants such as Omicron. Dr Monica Gandhi, professor of medicine at the University of California, said: "There is no evidence that the symptoms caused by [new variants] differ from the symptoms caused by other Omicron subvariants.

That would mean the usual COVID symptoms listed by the NHS - including a high temperature or shivering, a new, continuous cough and a loss or change to sense of smell or taste - would still apply. Other symptoms include shortness of breath, feeling tired or exhausted, an aching body and a headache.

A new study has revealed the order of Covid-19 XEC symptoms that could help differentiate the new variant from other illnesses with similar symptoms like the flu

The University of Southern California has revealed the exact order in which Covid-19 symptoms arise, which could help people differentiate between the new XEC variant and other illnesses going around this winter.

A new strain of Covid emerging in the UK is spreading as cases increase at a high rate, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has said. Called XEC, the strain is a combination of the KS.1.1 and KP.3.3 variants.