Cold chills, sore throat and body aches

The common cold, influenza, and COVID-19 can all cause throat irritation, aching muscles, tiredness, and chills. Influenza often starts abruptly, while a cold may build more gradually. Strep throat and tonsillitis can cause marked throat pain, swollen neck glands, and difficulty swallowing; cough and nasal symptoms may point elsewhere. Glandular fever can bring prolonged fatigue and swollen glands. Allergic rhinitis or acid reflux may irritate the throat, but they do not usually explain a full-body aching illness.

Rest, drink regularly, and choose soft foods or warm fluids if swallowing hurts. Follow local guidance about staying home and testing for COVID-19 when respiratory symptoms are present. Avoid sharing cups and utensils, and wash hands often. A pharmacist or clinician can advise on suitable pain or fever relief, taking account of pregnancy, allergies, liver or kidney disease, and other medicines. Antibiotics do not treat viral illnesses.

Get urgent help for difficulty breathing, inability to swallow saliva, drooling, a muffled voice, severe dehydration, confusion, or rapidly worsening symptoms. Arrange medical review for a very painful throat without cough, a persistent fever, a rash, one-sided throat swelling, or symptoms that are not improving. Seek earlier advice for a young child, pregnancy, immune suppression, or a significant long-term condition.

Ask whether you need a throat swab or viral test, which treatments are safe for you, and what symptom changes would require urgent review.