NHS latest Covid symptoms and what to do if you have it

NHS latest Covid symptoms and what to do if you have it With many people experiencing cold and flu symptoms, it can be difficult to tell if you have Covid The NHS provides guidance on Covid symptoms to watch for, along with advice on what to do if you contract the virus. With pupils having returned to school and the seasons changing, many people are already experiencing runny noses, sniffles and coughs. As many symptoms overlap, distinguishing between a cold, flu and Covid can be challenging. However, according to the NHS, the most common indicators of Covid are a high temperature, a new and continuous cough, and a loss or change to your sense of taste or smell. Those with Covid may also suffer from fatigue, shortness of breath, headaches, body aches, a sore throat, a runny nose, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Most people feel better within a few weeks, though recovery can take longer. For some, it can be a more severe illness with symptoms persisting for an extended period. Do I need to take a Covid test? Previously, the public was encouraged to take Covid tests when showing symptoms. However, current guidance states this is no longer necessary for most people. If you decide to take a test and the result is positive, the NHS recommends you try to stay at home and avoid contact with others for: - three days after the day the test was taken if you (or the child who took the test) is under 18 years old - five days after the day you took your test if you are 18 years old or over You should also "avoid meeting people who are more likely to get seriously ill from infections, such as people with a weakened immune system, for 10 days after the day you took your test". What should I do if I have Covid symptoms? NHS guidance advises that you should try to remain at home and limit contact with others if you or your child are experiencing symptoms, have a high temperature and/or feel too unwell to attend work, school, or childcare. You may return to your usual routine once you feel better or your temperature has returned to normal. If your child is experiencing mild symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat or mild cough, and feels well enough, they are able to attend school or childcare. What can I do to recover from Covid? The steps you can take to help yourself recover from Covid are much the same as those you would follow when dealing with a cold or flu. Ensure you get plenty of rest, keep yourself well hydrated, and take paracetamol or ibuprofen to relieve any aches and pains. A teaspoon of honey may help ease a cough, however honey should never be given to babies under one. If breathlessness is an issue, turning down the heating or opening a window may provide relief - as can sitting upright in a chair and relaxing your shoulders. Refrain from lying on your back if you have a cough, and try to stay calm if you feel breathless as anxiety can make it worse. It is also inadvisable to use a fan to cool your room, as this could potentially spread the virus. In the week to August 31, there were 261 patients admitted to healthcare settings in England with Covid. This was up 15%, from 227, in the previous week.