Please see commonly asked questions and their answers below:

Q: How do I get a Covid-19 test?

A: Ring 119 or visit www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test.

Q: I have a cough but no fever or changes in smell or taste – it can’t be Covid-19, can it?

A: The current guidelines are any of persistent cough or fever or change smell/taste. You do not have to have all three.

Q: Why do I have to isolate? I feel fine otherwise!

A: Isolation is the only way to stop the spread, and avoid infecting others – some of whom may not be fortunate to be able to clear the virus themselves. You must isolate if you have any symptoms of possible Covid-19, and you must not wait for a test before doing so.

Q: Is there a cure for Coronavirus?

A: At present, there is no cure for the virus, nor is there a vaccine. Treatment is supportive until you clear the virus. Antibiotics don’t treat viruses. The annual flu vaccine does not protect you from coronavirus.

Q: I have a number of health problems. My employer wants to know if I am at risk and what do I do with work?

A: It is your employer’s responsibility, not your GP, to make any relevant work related risk assessment. Employers should refer you to their occupational health teams if they are unsure.

Q: Do I need a sick note if isolating?

A: You do not need a doctor’s sick note and GPs will not be issuing these. If your employer requires a note, you can download one from www.111.nhs.uk/isolation-note.

Q: How do you know if my cough is Covid-19? It feels like my asthma, flu or common cold!

A: It is very difficult to tell, in both adults and children, if your cough or fever is related to Covid-19 or something else. We appreciate the consequences of needing to isolate and the difficulties getting a test, and often we are hearing patients trying to persuade themselves it’s something else – however the safest thing if unsure is to isolate, and arrange a test!