EVERYTHING you need to know about self isolating directly from Public Health England.
Currently in the UK, self-isolation is relevant to several groups of people:
-People who are waiting for a COVID-19 test result
-People who are identified as being a close contact of someone with coronavirus
-Returning travellers
If COVID-19 begins to spread in the community over the coming days or weeks, people with symptoms of coronavirus (such as a cough or fever) may be asked to self-isolate at home. This may mean staying indoors and avoiding contact with other people for up to 14 days.
If you have been told to self-isolate, you will need to get to the place you are going to stay using your normal mode of transport, once there remain indoors and avoid contact with other people.
This will prevent you from spreading the disease to your family, friends and the wider community.
In practical terms, this means that once you reach your residence you must:
-stay at home
-not go to work, school or public areas
-not use public transport like buses, trains, tubes or taxis
-avoid visitors to your home
-ask friends, family members or delivery services to carry out errands for you - such as getting groceries, medications or other shopping.
It is important that you separate yourself from other people in your home and if you share facilities like toilets and bathrooms, regular cleaning will be required.
For some people self-isolation can be boring or frustrating. You may find your mood and feelings being affected and you may feel low, worried or have problems sleeping. You may also feel isolated and alone.
There are simple things you can do that may help, such as staying in touch with friends and relatives on the phone or by social media and you may find it helpful to talk to them, if you want to.
There are also resources you can use, including Every Mind Matters and Good Thinking.
Some people who have self-isolated have found it useful to re-connect with a hobby or learn a new skill through an online course.
Make plans with your family and friends on how to manage shopping, dropping children to schools and events
Ask people to not visit your house for your duration; if you need a healthcare or care visit at home during this time, inform them that you are self-isolating in advance so that they can follow their local employers’ guidance.
It is fine for friends or family to drop off food for you. Alternatively, you can order by phone or online, such as through take away services or online shopping deliveries.
However, make sure you tell the delivery driver that the items are to be left outside, or in the porch, or as appropriate for your home.
Talk to those around you, including your employer, about the importance of self-isolation to reduce the risk of spreading infection at work. If you are well, you can work from home.
READ MORE: First case of coronavirus confirmed in Worcestershire
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Most people who catch it will make a full recovery without medical intervention. However, if you are concerned because you believe you are at greater risk contact NHS 111
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