Where to find useful Coronavirus guidance
Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a new illness that affects the lungs and airways.
After its initial outbreak in China, the disease has spread globally, with significant outbreaks in Italy, Spain, France, Germany, the US and the UK.
Currently, the risk in the UK is raised to high; after an initial three week lockdown that began 23 March, stay-at-home orders have been extended a further three weeks and will be reviewed again on 7th May.
Stay at home rules
Across the UK, the stay at home rules are currently as follows:
- Only go outside for food, health reasons or work (but only if you cannot work from home)
- If you go out, stay 2 metres (6ft) away from other people at all times
- Wash your hands as soon as you get home
Do not meet others, even friends or family. You can spread the virus even if you don’t have symptoms.
The government has published an in-depth FAQ to help answer common questions about what is and is not allowed while we remain under lockdown. You can read it here.
Finding trusted information about Covid-19
Lack of understanding and misinformation can lead to confusion – here is a list of reputable, trusted sources you can access to find official information and advice about everything from symptoms to travel recommendations.
Condition overview from the NHS
Here you can find official information from the NHS that gives a straightforward overview of the virus.
UK Government response to Coronavirus
If you want to know the latest number of UK cases, latest test figures, and the government’s action plan, the UK Gov website is the best source of information.
WHO Advice for the public
The World Health Organisation has issued advice for the public, including very useful mythbusters that counter some of the misinformation floating around online.
Track location by County of reported cases of Coronavirus
Dashboard showing reported cases of coronavirus in the UK, including new cases, cases by upper-tier local authority in England and number of deaths.
You can find data about reported cases in Scotland here.
You can find data about reported cases in Wales here .
You can find data about reported cases in Northern Ireland here and here.
A global overview of Coronavirus
If you’re interested in learning about the outbreaks in other countries, Johns Hopkins University in the United States is the best source for information. You can view global cases and deaths by country in its Covid-19 Resource Centre.
Q&A on Coronavirus
The World Health Organisation has also issued a simple Q&A with answers to some of the most common questions around Coronavirus.
Reassurance about Coronavirus
If you’re feeling anxious about the spread of Coronavirus, these two pieces can help. First, The Guardian has published a list of nine reasons to to be reassured, while inews has a feature titled 10 reasons not to panic .
Are you closely following the Coronavirus outbreak? Share your experiences in the column below.
Rachel - Silversurfers Assistant Editor
Latest posts by Rachel - Silversurfers Assistant Editor (see all)
- Get Ready for Stir-up Sunday - November 22, 2024
- Warming Soups - November 15, 2024
- What’s your favourite scary film? - October 26, 2024
- Easy Traybakes for National Baking Week - October 14, 2024
- Practical tips for living with arthritis - October 11, 2024
