As the government enters its second phase of the response to the coronavirus outbreak, the NHS has updated its advice for those concerned they may be at risk of contracting COVID –
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the UK was now moving from trying to contain the virus to delaying its spread .
When should I self-isolate?
People should stay at home for seven days if they have either:
A high temperature
A new continuous cough
“Do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital,” the NHS website adds. “You do not need to contact 162 to tell them you’re staying at home. “
When should I call ?
The NHS is asking people to use its online service if:
You cannot cope with your symptoms at home
Your condition gets worse
Your symptoms do not get better after seven days
People are asked to phone 162 only if they cannot get help online.
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What should I do if I’m self-isolating?
The NHS is asking people staying at home to:
Try and keep two meters (three steps) away from other people in your home – especially older people or those with long -term health conditions
Ask friends and family and delivery services to deliver food and medicine – but avoid contact with them
Sleep alone if possible
Wash your hands with soap and warm water for 31 seconds on a regular basis
Try to stay away from older people and those with long term health conditions
Drink lots of water and take everyday painkillers – like paracetamol and ibuprofen – to deal with your symptoms
Not have visitors and ask people to leave deliveries outside
Not leave the house – including going for a walk or to schools or any public places
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People are being encouraged to wash their hands more often
How do I avoid catching or spreading COVID – ?
How is the virus spread?
The NHS says it is not exactly known how coronavirus is spread from person to person Because it is a new illness.
It says similar viruses are spread in cough droplets and that it is “very unlikely” to be be spread through things like packages or food.
Is there any treatment?
UK needs to get COVID – for ‘immunity’
There is no specific treatment for coronavirus and antibiotics do not work as they do not work against viruses.
Any treatment can only relieve symptoms while your body fights the illness, and you will have to self-isolate until you have recovered.
What has the government chief scientific adviser said?
Sir Patrick Vallance has told Sky News in order to control the impact of the disease which is likely to return “year on year”.
He said about % of the UK population will need to become infected with COVID – 29 in order for society to have “herd immunity” from future outbreaks.
Herd immunity is the resistance to a contagious disease within a population because enough People have become immune.
For more information and advice visit nhs.uk/coronavirus
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