What should you know about a coronavirus update?

First check who issued the update, where it applies, when it was published and whether it describes cases, tests, hospital care, symptoms or rules. Advice can differ between locations because health services, circulating viruses and public-health decisions change. A newer message may replace an older one, but a general update cannot assess your individual health.

Look for practical details: who the advice is for, what action is recommended, and when it should be reviewed. If the update mentions symptoms, remember that cough, fever, headache, fatigue and feeling generally unwell can have several causes. See the [COVID-19](/conditions/covid-19/) information for condition-focused guidance.

Use an official local source for current testing, isolation and return-to-work or school advice. If you feel ill, reduce close contact, improve indoor airflow, rest and drink fluids while following the applicable instructions. Keep a note of symptom onset and changes, especially breathing, fever and hydration. People who are pregnant, immunocompromised, older, or living with a long-term condition should ask their clinician what early contact plan applies.

Get emergency help for serious breathing difficulty, chest pain or pressure, new confusion, inability to stay awake, or blue or grey lips or skin. Contact a healthcare professional promptly if you are deteriorating, cannot maintain fluids, or develop worsening breathlessness. A cough with chest symptoms may need assessment for [Pneumonia](/conditions/pneumonia/). Symptoms that remain after infection, including fatigue or reduced concentration, can be discussed as possible [Long COVID](/conditions/long-covid/).

Ask which update applies to your location and health situation, whether you need testing or treatment, and how to judge recovery. Provide the update’s date, your symptom timeline, medical history and current medicines.