COVID-19 Patient Information

Stay at home to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

The government’s latest advice is clear: people should stay at home whether they have symptoms of coronavirus or not, in order to prevent the spread of the infection. This includes people of all ages – even if you do not have symptoms or underlying health conditions. People can leave their homes in some circumstances: to shop for essential goods, for one form of exercise per day, for a medical reason, or to travel to or from work where it is necessary. Find out more.

What to do if you have coronavirus symptoms

Continue to stay at home if you have either:

• a high temperature – you feel hot to touch on your chest or back.
• a new, continuous cough – this means you’ve started coughing repeatedly.

Use the NHS 111 online coronavirus service to find out what to do.You can find tips for staying at home here.

How long to stay at home

• If you have symptoms, stay at home for 7 days.
• If you live with other people, they should stay at home for 14 days from the day the first person got symptoms.
• If you live with someone who is 70 or over, has a long-term condition, is pregnant or has a weakened immune system, try to find somewhere else for them to stay for 14 days.
• If you have to stay at home together, try to keep away from each other as much as possible.

How can I help to avoid catching or spreading germs?

Everyone should do what they can to stop coronavirus spreading. You can help prevent the spread of infection and avoid being exposed to coronavirus by taking the following measure:

Do

• Use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available.
• Wash your hands as soon as you get back home.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze.
• Put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards.
• Clean high-touch surfaces, like door handles, light switches and countertops with a disinfectant.

Dont’s

• Avoid close contact with people who have symptoms of coronavirus.
• Avoid social activities and events with large groups of people.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands aren’t clean.

Updated 07/04/20