HomeHealthWhat to do if you have Covid: Symptoms, tests and can you...

What to do if you have Covid: Symptoms, tests and can you go to work or school?

The UK is currently rolling out a Covid booster campaign, urging eligible individuals to get vaccinated as soon as possible. While there are no Covid restrictions in place, guidance recommends that those who catch the virus should try to stay at home. The symptoms of Covid include high temperature, continuous cough, loss of taste or smell, shortness of breath, fatigue, body aches, headache, sore throat, blocked or runny nose, loss of appetite, diarrhea, and feeling sick. While most people recover within a few days or weeks, some may experience more serious symptoms. Those concerned about worsening symptoms should seek medical help. Some individuals may develop long Covid, which includes extreme tiredness, shortness of breath, muscle aches, and memory and concentration problems. Routine Covid testing is not recommended, and most people can’t get free tests through the NHS. However, certain individuals with eligibility can purchase tests from chemists. After testing positive, people are advised to treat Covid similar to any other respiratory disease and no longer have to self-isolate. However, the government suggests staying home for a certain number of days depending on age. People at higher risk who are entitled to treatments upon catching Covid must report their test results. The contagious period can vary, with some being infectious for about five days and others for up to 10. When it comes to work, individuals are encouraged to work from home if possible, especially if they have a high temperature. Financial support schemes for isolating individuals have ended, but they may be entitled to Statutory Sick Pay. Under-18s who test positive for Covid should stay at home for three days and cannot go to school. The Covid booster campaign is currently targeting specific groups, and vaccinations are not available for private purchase in the UK. Eligible individuals are being contacted by the NHS, and bookings for vaccinations can be made through the NHS website, app, or by calling 119. After recovering from Covid, individuals should wait at least four weeks before getting a jab, as long as they had no severe illness or high fever. The vaccines do not infect people with Covid or cause positive test results.