Remain alert about coronavirus and when to get a lateral flow test

The leading pharmacy chain is hearing from patients who are unsure when they need to get a lateral flow test,

following the updated government guidance.

With each variant, symptoms may change slightly. As ever, people must look out for the following:

1. A high temperature or shivering (chills)

2. A new, continuous cough – this means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours

3. A loss or change to your sense of smell or taste

4. shortness of breath

5. Feeling tired or exhausted.

But other symptoms, with some not seen in former outbreaks of the virus can include:

1. An aching body

2. A headache

3. A sore throat

4. A blocked or runny nose

5. Loss of appetite

6. Diarrhoea

7. Feeling sick or being sick.

The pharmacy chain is urging people to consider getting a LFT when:

Visiting vulnerable relatives or friends

If you have spent time with somebody who has Covid-19 however you don’t have symptoms

Being in close proximity to a large number of people, such as at an airport, on a flight

When you have cold-like symptoms but no fever, loss of smell/taste, or cough

If you have had Covid and are wondering if it is safe to return to work.

Pharmacy Superintendent at Well Pharmacy, Ifti Khan, said: “We are seeing more and more people asking our pharmacy teams when they should carry out lateral flow tests. It is important for people to follow the government "Living with Covid" guidance remain vigilant to the Covid symptoms and take appropriate measures to protect themselves, their family, friends, and others.”