The NHS has provided essential guidance to help stop the spread of Covid. In the UK, there is a resurgence of Covid cases, particularly affecting both the younger and older population.
Currently, two variants of coronavirus, XFG (Stratus) and NB.1.8.1 (Nimbus), are the most common strains in the UK according to official reports.
While getting vaccinated can reduce the risk of severe illness from Covid, there are additional measures you can take to lower the chances of contracting the virus. The NHS emphasizes on its website that Covid-19 spreads easily through close contact with infected individuals.
The virus is transmitted through small droplets released when an infected person breathes, speaks, coughs, or sneezes. It can be contracted by inhaling these droplets or touching contaminated surfaces and then touching one’s face.
Indoor settings and crowded places pose a higher risk of transmission. Therefore, frequent handwashing and avoiding crowded areas are recommended by health experts.
To minimize the risk of catching or spreading Covid-19, it is crucial to wash hands regularly with soap and water or use hand sanitizers throughout the day. Avoid touching your face with unwashed hands.
It is possible to remain infectious for up to 10 days, even though many individuals are no longer contagious after five days.
In addition to these precautions, the NHS suggests other ways to further reduce the risk of contracting Covid. Symptoms of Covid-19 can resemble those of common colds and flu.
Recent data from the Royal College of GPs indicates a rise in Covid cases across the UK, accompanied by an increase in hospital admissions related to the virus.