Information about the Coronavirus in the UK

As the newsrooms across the world describe a doomed world plagued with Coronavirus is important to remember that there is currently no widespread person-to-person spread of the virus in the UK. Having said that, you can still play a part in reducing risk of transmission, both for Coronavirus, and other infections such as flu.

The following information is sourced from NHS website. For the latest information and status about this issue, always refer to reliable sources for information about the COVID-19 coronavirus such as NHS or Department of Health

How to reduce the risks

• always carry tissues and use them to catch a cough or sneeze; then bin the tissue, and wash hands or use a sanitiser gel
• wash hands often with soap and water, especially after using public transport; use a sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
• avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
• avoid close contact with people who are unwell

COVID-19 is a new illness that can affect your lungs and airways. It’s caused by a virus called coronavirus.

What’s the risk of coronavirus in the UK?

The UK Chief Medical Officers have raised the risk to the public from low to moderate.

Health professionals are working to contact anyone who has been in close contact with people who have coronavirus.

What’s the risk of coronavirus for travellers?

There are some countries and areas where there’s a higher chance of coming into contact with someone with coronavirus. See NHS advice for travellers.

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.

Do I need to avoid public places?

Most people can continue to go to work, school and other public places.

You only need to stay away from public places (self-isolate) if advised to by the 111 online coronavirus service or a medical professional.

How to avoid catching or spreading germs

There are things you can do to help stop viruses like coronavirus spreading.

• 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
• wash your hands with soap and water often – use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
• try to avoid close contact with people who are unwell

NHS online if you need medical help

NHS 111 has an online coronavirus service that can tell you if you need medical help and advise you what to do.

Use this service if:

• you think you might have coronavirus
• you’ve recently been to a country or area with a high risk of coronavirus – see the coronavirus advice for travellers
• you’ve been in close contact with someone with coronavirus

REMEMBER: Do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital. Call 111 if you need to speak to someone.

Further information

• If you are still concern about the COVID 19, further information can be found here and here 

Disclaimer:

The information is this page have been sourced from NHS England and London Borough of Southwark. If you are feeling unwell, call 111. Be aware of Coronavirus misinformation and false medical advice spreading across social media platforms.

Last updated on Sunday 1st March 2020