In order to stop the spread of COVID-19, it is important to follow the correct rules and regulations so that no-one else becomes infected. It is important that we follow the correct government guidelines, this includes both for general life and travel. This article will outline the main situations a person might be in that would require getting a PCR test.
I’ve had one or more vaccination doses. What do I do?
If you are fully vaccinated, it is known that you are less likely to get COVID-19. If you do have coronavirus but you are fully vaccinated, you are less likely to become severely ill from it, and more likely to have a quicker recovery time, according to Medicspot.
If you are a contact of someone who has contracted COVID-19 but you are fully vaccinated, you do not have to self-isolate. This means that should you need to collect a PCR test for someone else in your household who is not fully vaccinated and has COVID-19, you are able to do so safely. It is important to still wear protective face coverings and wash your hands regularly when you are in contact with them and when going outside, so as to keep others safe.
If you have COVID-19 symptoms, here’s what to do
If you have COVID-19 symptoms, or have received a positive COVID-19 test result, it is crucial that you stay at home and self-isolate. It is also important that those in your household isolate too. In order to get a PCR test, you can arrange to get one online by calling 119 from any UK number. It is vital that while you are waiting for the home test kit, or a test site appointment, that you stay at home. If you need to travel to a test site appointment, do not use public transport or taxis unless you have absolutely no other option. When you have left home, make sure to wear a face covering and stay at least 2 metres apart from others. Then, return home afterwards immediately, without making any detours or additional stops.
You can return to your normal routine and stop self-isolating after 10 full days if your symptoms have gone, or if the only symptoms you have are a cough or anosmia (loss of smell) – which can last for several weeks after the virus has left your system. If you still have a high temperature after 10 days or are otherwise unwell, stay at home and seek medical advice.
If you are self-isolating because of a positive COVID-19 but did not have any symptoms, and you develop symptoms within your isolation period, you then have to start a 10 day isolation period by counting 10 days from the day the symptoms began.
Stay as far away as possible from other members of your household. When possible, avoid using communal spaces such as living areas and kitchens. While others are present, take your meals back to your room and eat there. If you are well enough to do so, you can try to take exercise within your home, private outdoor space, or garden if you have one.
In some cases, it might be difficult to separate yourself from others in your household. For example, the procedures listed above aren’t possible if you are living with children or have responsibilities for caring for another person. If this is the case, try and follow these guidelines to the best of your ability – and ensure others in your household are isolating also.