COVID-19 Symptoms
COVID-19 is a relatively new strain of the Coronavirus. There are 4 main symptoms. They are:
- Fever and tiredness;
- A new, continuous cough;
- Loss/change in sense of smell or taste;
- Breathing difficulties.
If you have symptoms of the virus, contact the 111 coronavirus service.
Do not go to your do not go to your GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital, as you may spread the virus to the wider community.
The Government has produced the publication COVID-19: guidance for households with possible coronavirus infection, which tells you what you should do if you think you – or a member of your household – has COVID-19.
Information is available online from the NHS on what to do if you think you have Coronavirus.
The Government also publishes advice and updates online.
Test and Trace
The NHS Test and Trace service is part of the Government’s coronavirus recovery strategy.
Anyone with symptoms of the virus will be tested. Close contacts of anyone, who tests positive, will have to share information about recent contacts. Information required may include details of household members, people with whom they have been in direct contact, or within 2 metres for more than 15 minutes.
Contacts will be traced and contacted by NHS Test and Trace. Close contacts must isolate for 14 days, even if they have no symptoms, to avoid spreading the virus.
Test and Trace will help identify, contain and control coronavirus, reduce its spread and save lives.
COVID-19 Testing and treatment are free of charge, regardless of immigration status. The Government has published information on Testing and Treatment in 40 languages including Punjabi, Urdu, Arabic, Polish, Cantonese, Mandarin, Kurdish, Czech, Farsi and Tamil.
Government Guidance
The Government has published a great deal of guidance, telling you how you – and your family – can stay safe during the pandemic. Publications include:
- Staying Safe Outside your Home
- Coronavirus Outbreak FAQs: What you can and can’t do
- Staying Alert and Safe (Social Distancing)
General Health Advice
If you need help or advice not related to coronavirus:
- Go to the for NHS website or your GP’s surgery for health information and advice;
- Use the NHS 111 online service for urgent medical help. Only call 111 if you are unable to get help online.
- Call 999 for an ambulance only in life-threatening emergencies.
