What is the Risk of Catching Coronavirus in the UK?
The UK Chief Medical Officers have raised the risk to the public from moderate to High. But the risk to individuals remains low. Health professionals are working to contact anyone who has been in close contact with people who have coronavirus.
Symptoms of Coronavirus
- A Cough
- A High Temperature
- Shortness of Breath
But these symptoms do not necessarily mean you have the illness. The symptoms are similar to other illnesses that are much more common, such as cold and flu.
How coronavirus is spread
Because it’s a new illness, we do not know exactly how coronavirus spreads from person to person. Similar viruses are spread in cough droplets. It’s very unlikely it can be spread through things like packages or food. Viruses like coronavirus cannot live outside the body for very long.
How to Avoid Catching or Spreading Germs
There are things you can do to help stop viruses like coronavirus spreading:
- DO: Wash your hands with soap and water often – do this for at least 20 seconds
- DO: Use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
- DO: Wash your hands as soon as you get home
- DO: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze
- DO: Put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards
- DON'T: DO NOT touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean
Looking After Your Health and Wellbeing
To help yourself stay well while you’re at home:
- stay in touch with family and friends over the phone or on social media
- try to keep yourself busy – you could try activities like cooking, reading, online learning and watching films
- do light exercise at home, or outside once a day
For more advice click on the following links:
Treatment for Coronavirus
There is currently no specific treatment for coronavirus. Antibiotics do not help, as they do not work against viruses. Treatment aims to relieve the symptoms while your body fights the illness.
You’ll need to stay in isolation away from other people until you’ve recovered.