NHS says 'don't do this' if you think you have Covid - cases on the rise

NHS says 'don't do this' if you think you have Covid - cases on the rise People who think they have Covid have been given a reminder about what to do before seeking medical help Covid-19 is still circulating, with the latest UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) figures showing SARS-CoV-2 positivity in hospital settings in England increased from 5.9 per cent to 7 per cent in the week ending September 20. Hospital admissions also rose over the same period. For anyone who develops symptoms, the NHS has clear advice on what to do at home and when to seek medical help. Rather than automatically heading to a GP surgery, people who have a high temperature or feel too unwell to carry out normal activities are advised to try to stay at home and avoid contact with others. The NHS says most people with Covid will feel better within a few weeks, although recovery can take longer for some people. It also warns that symptoms can be similar to those caused by other illnesses, including colds and flu, meaning symptoms alone cannot necessarily confirm that someone has Covid. If you do have symptoms, the NHS recommends getting plenty of rest and drinking enough water to avoid dehydration. Paracetamol or ibuprofen can also be taken if you feel uncomfortable, while a teaspoon of honey may help ease a cough in adults and children over one. There is also no general requirement for people with Covid symptoms to take a lateral flow test. However, the NHS says people who are eligible can get the tests for free as soon as they get symptoms. To find out if you qualify, visit the NHS website - otherwise you'll have to pay. If you do decide to test and receive a positive result, the NHS says adults should try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people for five days from the day the test was taken. People are also advised to avoid contact with those more likely to become seriously ill from infections for 10 days. NHS Covid symptoms The NHS says Covid-19 symptoms can include: - A high temperature, feeling hot, cold or shivery - A new, continuous cough - Loss or change to your sense of smell or taste - Shortness of breath - Feeling tired or exhausted - An aching body - A headache - A sore throat - A blocked or runny nose - Loss of appetite - Diarrhoea - Feeling sick or being sick Staying at home is not the same as avoiding medical advice altogether, and the NHS says people should seek an urgent GP appointment or contact NHS 111 if they are worried, symptoms are worsening or they are not getting better. People at increased risk of becoming seriously ill, including those who are pregnant, aged 60 or over or have a weakened immune system, are particularly advised to get help when needed. Call 999 or go to A&E if someone becomes very unwell, develops sudden chest pain, is so breathless they cannot speak in short sentences while resting, coughs up blood, collapses or has a seizure. The NHS therefore advises people to stay home when symptoms are mild enough to manage there, but not to delay getting medical help when symptoms become concerning.