COVID-19 or coronavirus is an illness that can affect the lungs and airways. COVID-19 has symptoms similar to the flu. In almost all cases people will not die from having coronavirus.
However, for people over the age of 70 and or/with existing health conditions, it can have increased risks.
How do I know if I might have Coronavirus?
Most people, and especially young people, will not experience severe symptoms. However, you may experience some symptoms which might include;
- a high temperature – you feel hot to touch on your chest or back
- a new, continuous cough – this means you’ve started coughing repeatedly
What do I do if I’ve got these symptoms?
- The NHS recommends isolating yourself for 7 days if you have ether of the above symptoms
- Let a member of staff know that you are feeling unwell
- Staff will make arrangements for you to isolate yourself in your accommodation
- Do not go to a GP surgery, pharmacy or hospital
What if I feel really unwell?
You can contact NHS 111 for urgent advice if for example:
-
- you feel you cannot cope with your symptoms
- your condition gets worse
- our symptoms do not get better after 7 days
How do you stop spreading coronavirus?
- Always wash your hands when you go in or out of the building
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze. Toilet paper will do the job. If this is not available, then ask staff
- Put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards
- Avoid close contact with people who have symptoms of coronavirus
- Only travel on public transport if you need to
- Avoid social activities and areas with large groups of people (see section on day centres and support services)
- Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean
- Avoid having visitors to your room including friends and family
- Do not shake dirty laundry – this can spread the virus
For more information
NHS Guidance: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid19
General questions and answers: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/live/world-51945323
Drug Treatment and COVID-19: https://www.release.org.uk/blog/drug-treatmentand- coronaviruscovid19
Harm reduction and covid-19 for people who use drugs: https://www.talkingdrugs.org/ covid19harm-reduction-for-people-who-use-drugs
NHS 111 is a free service you can contact if you have an urgent medical problem and you’re not sure what to do. You can contact it through: 111.nhs.uk or call 111. You can call NHS 111 free from a mobile or a pay phone. Be patient as there may be a wait to speak to someone.
