Coronavirus / Covid-19
Covid-19 is caused by a cold virus, but gives symptoms more like flu. The majority of patients will recover after a brief, unpleasant illness. Some sufferers, though, will go on to be very unwell.
Symptoms
· Fever (more than 37.8)
· Aches
· Cough
· You may also have a sore throat and runny nose, but these features are less common than with other colds.
· MOST PEOPLE GET BETTER IN LESS THAN A WEEK
· Some sufferers may go on to become short of breath, and may even need hospital admission to help with their breathing.
What you should do
· If you have symptoms of Covid-19 you need to stay at home and away from other people for seven days.
· As with any other cold or flu, take paracetamol, ibuprofen or a cold & flu remedy such as Beechams or Lemsip.
· There is no need to have a test for Covid-19.
· You don’t need to contact your GP. GPs don’t have any tests for Covid-19. Antibiotics, steroids, inhalers and nebulisers don’t help and will not be prescribed.
· You don’t need to contact NHS 111 or go to A&E.
· Most people start to get better in less than a week.
· BUT if you can’t cope at home or become short of breath, you should go online or call NHS 111 for care. The Covid-19 expert team will come to you or give you appropriate guidance.
· Don’t call the surgery or go to A&E: Contact NHS 111.
Avoid catching or spreading the virus
Covid-19 spreads in droplets from sneezes and saliva.
The virus can survive for short periods of time on surfaces such as door handles and cups.
· Coughs and sneezes spread diseases.
· Always use a handkerchief or tissue.
· Wash your hands with soap – you don’t need to use alcohol.
· Avoid being too close to people who might cough or sneeze on you, and avoid shaking hands.
· Don’t share cups or bottles.
· Don’t sleep in the same bed as someone who has symptoms.
· Avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose and mouth.