Covid-19 Information

 

Do you have a cold or is it COVID-19?

As we head into winter colds and flu are bound to become more common. Unfortunately because the delta variant of COVID-19 can cause symptoms similar to a common cold, i.e. sore throat, runny nose, headache, in addition to the more classical COVID-19 symptoms of cough, fever and loss of taste or smell, it is impossible to tell from the symptoms or by examination whether the cause is COVID-19 or just a common cold virus. And severity of symptoms is not guide. COVID-19 may only cause mild symptoms, particularly in those who have received the vaccine, but you can still spread the virus to others.

If you have cold symtoms you need a PCR test to exclude COVID-19 infection if you have cold or flu symptoms even if you have received both vaccine doses. Get a free PCR test by calling 119 or online COVID-19 testing.

What are the two types of COVID-19 tests available?

You can check if you have COVID-19 infection using two different tests, available free of charge by calling NHS 119 or online COVID-19 testing. Which one you use depends on whether or not you have symptoms:
  • If you have symtoms you needa PCR tests –  this test will tell you if your symtoms are because you have COVID-19 infection. This is the most sensitive test. It is sent to a lab to be checked and takes 24-48 hours to get a result. You and your family and close contacts have to self-isolate until you receive a negative result.
  • Rapid lateral flow tests should only be used for screen - do not use if you have symtoms as they are not reliable in this situation.  Lateral flow tests are useful if you do not have symptoms in order to demonstrate you do not have COVID-19 infection. They give a result within 30 minutes using a device similar to a pregnancy test

What to do if you have cold symptoms or suspect you have COVID-19

The delta variant is also associated with common cold symptoms. Get a PCR test as soon as possible if you have any of the following COVID-19 symptoms:
  • a high temperature
  • a new, continuous cough
  • a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste
  • headache
  • sore throat
  • runny nose
You and anyone you live with should stay at home until you get your test result. Only leave your home to have a test.Anyone in your childcare or support bubble should also stay at home if you have been in close contact with them since your symptoms started or during the 48 hours before they started.

Do not use a rapid lateral flow tests if you have symptoms as they are unreliable in this situation. A PCR test should be done if you have any of the symptoms above, or if you suspect you may have COVID-19 infection - this applies to both adults and children.

You may arrange a PCR test locally or arrange for a test kit to be sent to you at home by phoning 119 or follow the link COVID-19 testing.

 

How GPs Have Contributed To The COVID-19 Vaccination Programme

If you were wondering about how GPs have been contributing to the COVID-19 vaccination programme read the experiences of Dr John Griffiths, a GP in Winsford. His recent blog provides a good overview of the role GPs have made in helping to deliver the vaccine. Follow the link to read more How GPs have contributed to the COVID-19 vaccination programme.

 

For the latest information about COVID-19 including figures about case numbers and vaccination rates visit Coronavirus daily update