What is self-isolation?

Self-isolation is when you do not leave your home because you have or might have coronavirus (COVID-19).

This helps stop the virus spreading to other people.

Self-isolation is different to:

• social distancing – general advice for everyone to avoid close contact with other people
• shielding – advice for people at high risk from COVID-19

When to self-isolate

Self-isolate immediately if:

• you have any symptoms of COVID-19 (a high temperature, a new, continuous cough or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste)
• you've tested positive for COVID-19 – this means you have the virus
• someone you live with has symptoms or tested positive
• someone in your childcare or support bubble has symptoms or has tested positive and you’ve been in close contact with them recently
• you've been told you've been in contact with someone who tested positive – find out what to do if you're told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace or the NHS COVID-19 app
• you have arrived in England from abroad – see GOV.UK: how to quarantine when you arrive in England

How to self-isolate

Do not:

• go to work, school or public places – work from home if you can
• go on public transport or use taxis
• go out to get food and medicine – order it online or by phone, or ask someone to bring it to your home
• have visitors in your home, including friends and family – except for people providing essential care
• go out to exercise – exercise at home or in your garden, if you have one

When to get a test

Get a PCR test (test that is sent to a lab) as soon as possible if you have any symptoms of COVID-19.

The symptoms are:

• a high temperature
• a new, continuous cough
• a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste

The test needs to be done in the first 8 days of having symptoms.

Get a PCR test to check if you have COVID-19 on GOV.UK

Help and support while you're staying at home

While you're self-isolating:

• you can get help with everyday tasks, like collecting shopping or medicines, from an NHS volunteer
• you might be able to get sick pay or other types of financial support if you're not able to work

Find out about support if you're self-isolating

COVID-19 useful information

• view the weekly figures
• vaccinations - about the vaccine and myth busting FAQs
• support for businesses

• testing centres for people with symptoms

• rapid tests for people without symptoms

Full information is available on our website.

Coronavirus

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