New guidance announced by the Government last night requires anyone who has symptoms of a coronavirus infection – a new continuous cough and/or a high temperature (37.8 degrees centigrade or higher) – to stay at home for 7 days from the point that their symptoms first started.
This will help protect others in the community whilst the individual is infectious. You do not need to call NHS 111 to go into self isolation. If your symptoms worsen during home isolation or are no better after 7 days, contact NHS 111 online. If you have no internet access, call NHS 111. For a medical emergency dial 999.
The updated government advice is available at Coronavirus (COVID-19): UK government response.
John Denley, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Director of Public Health, said: "The Government has announced that the UK has moved into the delay phase, which is where we need to do everything we can to delay the spread of coronavirus as much as possible.
"It's really important that everyone follows the latest guidance announced last night about staying at home if they show even the slightest symptoms of coronavirus. For most people who get coronavirus, it will be a mild infection, but we all have a role to play in protecting the most vulnerable people in society.
"By staying at home if you have suspected coronavirus, you will be helping to protect your friends, colleagues and the wider community and will help control the spread of the virus."
The latest Government advice is as follows:
- If you have symptoms of coronavirus infection, however mild, stay at home and do not leave your house for 7 days from when your symptoms started.
- This action will help protect others in your community whilst you are infectious.
- Plan ahead and ask others for help to ensure that you can successfully stay at home.
- Ask your employer, friends and family to help you to get the things you need to stay at home.
- Stay at least 2 metres away from other people in your home whenever possible.
- Sleep alone, if that is possible.
- Wash your hands regularly for 20 seconds, each time using soap and water.
- Stay away from vulnerable individuals such as the elderly and those with underlying health conditions as much as possible.
- You do not need to contact NHS 111 to go into self-isolation. If your symptoms worsen during home isolation or are no better after 7 days contact NHS 111 online. If you have no internet access, you should call NHS 111. For a medical emergency dial 999.
The Government says that schools should remain open but has advised schools and colleges against all overseas trips for children under 18 until further notice. Large gatherings such as sports events and concerts can continue to go ahead at present, amid concerns that moving too soon with stricter measures could bring public fatigue.
Mr Denley added: “It’s very clear that these are just the first steps in what will be required of all of us during the delay phase.
“This is going to be a long process and coronavirus is sadly going to be with us for many months.
“In the meantime, good hygiene remains the best way to prevent the spread of coronavirus and there are some simple steps you can take to protect you and your family by washing your hands regularly and thoroughly using soap and water for at least 20 seconds at a time and, if you cough, to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue and dispose of it immediately.
“It’s also important to stress that smoking puts people at greater risk of respiratory conditions; there’s still time for people to help protect themselves from coronavirus by quitting smoking.”
For further information and advice, please visit Coronavirus advice and information.
