A contact of mine has Covid-19, what do I do?

What is the guidance for those who have been exposed to a contact with coronavirus who they do not live with? Here’s what the government advises ...

WHAT IS A ‘CONTACT’?

A ‘contact’ is a person who has been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for coronavirus anytime from two days before this person experienced symptoms, up to 10 days from the onset of symptoms. If you have been notified you are a contact by the NHS Test and Trace service, you must self-isolate at home for a period of 14 days from the date of your last contact with the person with coronavirus.

WHAT IS SELF-ISOLATING?

During the self-isolation period, you should not go to work, school or any public areas, and must not use public transport or taxis. You should also not leave to buy food or other essentials, and any exercise must be taken within your home. Failing to stay at home and self-isolate could result in a fine of up to £10,000. If you have not been contacted by NHS Test and Trace, this means you do not need to self-isolate and should continue to follow the general guidance on social distancing.

WHAT ABOUT PEOPLE I LIVE WITH?

If you do not have symptoms of coronavirus, other people in your household do not need to self-isolate at home with you. However, Government guidance states that other household members should take extra care to follow the advice on social distancing, handwashing and respiratory hygiene, such as covering coughs and sneezes.

SHOULD I GET A TEST?

You should not arrange for a test unless you develop one of the three main symptoms of coronavirus: ■ A new continuous cough ■ A high temperature ■ A loss of, or change in, normal sense of taste or smell If you do not develop any of these symptoms, you should not arrange for testing.

DO I NEED TO SELF-ISOLATE IF I’VE ALREADY HAD CORONAVIRUS?

If you have previously tested positive for coronavirus, it is likely that you will have developed a short-term immunity to the virus. However, it is still uncertain that this will be the case for everyone, nor is it known how long immunity may last. As such, if you are notified that you are a contact of someone who has tested positive for coronavirus, you must follow the selfisolation guidance, even if you have already had the virus yourself.

SAVE LIVES: WASH YOUR HANDS MORE OFTEN FOR 20 SECONDS