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It feels like everybody is coughing, sneezing or sniffling at the moment. Despite the evenings now being longer and brighter, many Brits remain stuck indoors, frantically grabbing for the next tissue.

We consulted Dr Alia Fahmy, medical director and GP at Concierge Medical, to determine whether this is merely a coincidence, or if there is something in the atmosphere causing so many people to feel under the weather. What might be making us feel unwell this time of year?

The spring period is famously unpredictable, and Fahmy emphasises how the swings between sunny intervals and showers can affect our immune system.

"We've had some nice, bright days, but then all of a sudden there has also been some cold and damp days, and this does have an impact on our vitamin D levels, our immune system and our general feeling of wellbeing," says Fahmy.

"We know that people feel better in themselves when the weather is better, and we have had a long, cold, damp winter this year."

The pollen count also increases dramatically this time of year, so many of us tend to battle with hay fever symptoms in spring.

"Some people will have hay fever from the spring blossom, so will start experiencing symptoms now, although the exact timing and severity vary from person to person," says Fahmy. "People tend to present with watery eyes, sneezing and a runny, itchy nose. They can also experience a lot of congestion and feel quite foggy in the head with it as well." Meanwhile, the beginning of 2026 witnessed a notable surge in the spread of various viruses.

"It has been a really nasty year so far for several kinds of viruses," says Fahmy. "For example, flu cases were particularly elevated at the start of the year and have now started to return to normal levels, but norovirus levels are still quite high at the moment, which isn't helping us feel well."

Furthermore, stress can take a considerable toll on our health. "We shouldn't underestimate the impact of all the things that are going on in the world right now, which is likely to increase people's stress levels and therefore have an impact on their immune system and general feeling of wellbeing," says Fahmy. "So, there's lots of different things that are playing a part in making people feel under the weather this spring."

How do we tell the difference between a cold and hay fever? While colds and hay fever share numerous symptoms such as sneezing and a runny nose, a fever is an indicator that helps set the two apart.

"There's no fever or temperature change with hay fever, so if you are experiencing fevers that a clear sign that is a viral infection, like a cold, rather than hay fever," explains Fahmy.

"In addition, I wouldn't expect watery, itchy eyes to be a sign of a cold, as this is more likely to be hay fever."

Examining previous patterns can also prove useful. "Are you somebody that has a tendency towards allergies? Are you asthmatic? Do you have eczema? Because if you are in that category, then you are classed as having atopy, which is essentially those sensitivities, which means hay fever is probably going to be more likely," says the GP.

What symptoms can we manage at home?

"If you are feeling fluey and achy and have got a bit of a temperature, make sure that you've always got some form of paracetamol in the house," advises Fahmy. "Similarly, for norovirus, I think it's always sensible to have some Dioralyte rehydration sachets in the cupboard at home.

"With many norovirus and flu-like symptoms, it is usually a case of symptom control and prioritising rest and fluids rather than actual treatment."

Moreover, the GP emphasises that taking preventative action is key if you're prone to seasonal hay fever.

"Make sure that you start your antihistamines a good four weeks before hay fever season starts to stop you from getting those hay fever symptoms when pollen levels are already at its peak," recommends Fahmy.

What symptoms should people seek professional help about?

"If your symptoms are new or different or ongoing, or if your fever symptoms aren't settling, or if anything feels like it's getting worse with time, rather than better with time, you need to get help," advises Fahmy. "This would especially be the case for anybody at the two extremes of age, i.e. young infants or older adults." Is there anything we can do to bolster our immunity this spring?

"Make sure that you are taking vitamin D supplements and are getting outdoors," advises Fahmy. "Getting some fresh air and doing some exercise are both simple things, but actually make the world of difference.

"Exercise, in particular, will help boosts your immunity, your cardiovascular health and that general feeling of wellbeing."