Is it a cold or coronavirus?

So what are the rules?

If you have symptoms of COVID-19 you should follow the latest government guidance about when you should stay at home.

What are the main symptoms?

Symptoms of COVID-19 can include:

• a high temperature or shivering (chills) – a high temperature means you feel hot to touch on your chest or back (you do not need to measure your temperature)
• a new, continuous cough – this means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours
• a 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

The symptoms are similar to symptoms of other illnesses, such as colds and flu.

What to do if you have symptoms

You should try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people if you have symptoms of COVID-19 and have either:

• have an elevated temperature
• do not feel well enough to go to school, college, or childcare, or do your normal activities

You can go back to school, college or childcare when you feel better or do not have an elevated temperature.

If you have mild symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat, or mild cough, and you feel well enough, you can go to school, college, or childcare.

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze and wash your hands after using or throwing away tissues.

Most people who are unwell will recover in a few days with rest and plenty of fluids.

Remember, only get a test if you have symptoms or you have been asked to get a test.

You can visit the NHS website for more information: www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19

If you’re still unsure, check with your school or college and don’t forget to make sure they are informed if you cannot attend.

If you are worried about your symptoms or are still not sure what to do, you can use the NHS 111 online coronavirus service. Visit: 111.nhs.uk