A cough, sneeze and a headache away from cold & flu season

New data forecasts that the start of the winter cold and flu season will hit the UK next week with cough and cold soaring well above normal incidence levels.

Based on an analysis of the last five years of national incidence data, the makers of Benylin Mucus Cough & Cold All in One Relief found that the week commencing the 14 November is set to be the date where the number of people suffering from a cold or flu starts to significantly increase.

This trend continues over the course of the winter months, with peak incidence expected to occur in December with the number of cold and flu sufferers set to hit 7 million. Swiftly following the peak, incidence rates will plummet over the months of January and February until they reach low levels in March.

GP, Dr Hilary Jones commented: "Most colds will last 3-7 days and the symptoms you experience, may include mucus build up, cough, sore throat and sneezing. The best thing you can do is to get plenty of rest, keep hydrated and manage your symptoms with over-the-counter remedies. Taking an expectorant to thin mucus and loosen phlegm, may provide some relief from a chesty cough."

Cold viruses are familiar illnesses that the average UK adult experiences around 2-5 times a year. To help combat them, the makers of Benylin, renowned for its cough syrup, have now launched their first cough & cold tablet for mucus relief this winter - Benylin Mucus Cough & Cold All in One Relief.

Contains guaifenesin, phenylephrine and paracetamol. Always read the label.