What should you know about COVID-19 cases?

COVID-19 is an infection caused by a coronavirus. Some people have mild illness, while others become more unwell. Common features can include cough, fever, fatigue, headache and a general feeling of being unwell. A symptom by itself cannot confirm the infection, because several respiratory illnesses can look similar. Testing advice may depend on your symptoms, health history and local clinical guidance.

The illness can affect the airways and, in some people, the lungs. A chest infection such as pneumonia is a possible complication that needs medical assessment. Symptoms that continue or return after the initial illness may need discussion because Long COVID can involve ongoing tiredness, concentration changes or other difficulties.

Rest, drink fluids regularly and use medicines only as directed on the label or by a clinician. Keep track of whether fever, cough, tiredness or breathing symptoms are improving. Limit close contact while you are unwell, improve ventilation and follow current local advice about testing and staying away from others. Contact a clinician early if you are pregnant, have a long-term condition, have a weakened immune system or take medicines that may affect your infection risk.

Seek urgent medical help for severe difficulty breathing, new chest pain, blue or grey lips, confusion, unusual difficulty staying awake or a rapid worsening of your condition. Arrange prompt clinical advice if fever persists, you cannot keep fluids down, you are becoming markedly weaker or a cough is worsening after initial improvement. A clinician can decide whether examination, testing or treatment is appropriate.

Ask which symptoms should trigger a call, whether you need testing, how to manage your regular medicines and when it is reasonable to return to work or school. Mention when symptoms began, any measured temperature, breathing changes, recent contact with someone ill and medical conditions you already have.