Test and trace now available in Worcestershire
Test and Trace is now available for people in Worcestershire with coronavirus symptoms.
The first step to take is to self-isolate for at least seven days from the start of any symptoms and then order or book a test by visiting www.nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119.
If you test positive for the virus, the NHS will get back in touch to let you know.
Contact tracers from the NHS Test and Trace service will also need to ask you for information about people you have been in contact with.
That could include household members, people you have been in direct contact with or within two metres for more than 15 minutes.
People identified as having been in close contact with someone who has a positive test must stay at home for 14 days, even if they do not have symptoms, to stop unknowingly spreading the virus.
Dr Kathryn Cobain, Director for Public Health in Worcestershire, said: “It’s really important to book a test as soon as you develop symptoms of coronavirus, as this will help to protect you and those who you come into contact with.
“The test itself involves taking a swab of the nose and back of the throat. You can do the test yourself, or someone else can do it for you. You can get tested by visiting a regional testing site or ordering a test to be done at home.
“If you can identify people you have been in contact with, you will help prevent the spread of the virus and keep other people safe.”
The symptoms of coronavirus include a new continuous cough, a high temperature and a loss of or change in your normal sense of taste or smell.
If the test is positive, you will need to complete the rest of your seven-day self-isolation, unless you continue to have a high temperature, in which case you should continue to self isolate until this returns to normal.
If you live with other people, all other household members must stay at home for 14 days, unless they also develop symptoms of coronavirus. If they develop symptoms, then they should also book a test right away.
People identified as having been in close contact with someone who has a positive test must stay at home for 14 days, even if they do not have symptoms, to stop unknowingly spreading the virus.
For more information on the service, visit: www.worcestershire.gov.uk/coronavirus
If you have been asked to self isolate by the team and would like some support, please visit: www.worcestershire.gov.uk/here2help