NHS shares two locations you’re more than likely to catch Covid

Covid spreads ‘very easily’

You’re “more likely” to contract Covid in two specific locations, according to NHS guidance. Steering clear of these spots where feasible could help reduce your risk of infection, particularly if cases spike as we head towards and through winter.

According to the most recent UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) figures, reported cases in England dropped by 5% in the week ending October 28, falling from 2,301 to 2,186. However, deaths that week jumped by 24.6%, rising from 69 to 86, while patients admitted to healthcare facilities with Covid increased by 33.5% – climbing from 875 to 1,168.

Covid spreads “very easily” through close contact with infected individuals. This occurs because when someone with Covid breathes, talks, coughs or sneezes, they emit tiny droplets carrying the virus.

On its website, the NHS states that you can contract it by inhaling these droplets, or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your eyes, nose or mouth. It also cautions that you are “more likely” to catch Covid “indoors and in crowded places”.

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To minimise your risk of catching Covid it’s crucial to wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitiser regularly throughout the day. If you’re at heightened risk of becoming seriously ill from Covid, the NHS also advises you:

• work from home if possible, or discuss with your employer how they can help minimise your risk at work.
• open windows and doors if meeting people indoors, or consider meeting outside instead.
• maintain at least 2 metres distance from others (particularly indoors or in crowded spaces).
• wear a face covering when it’s difficult to keep your distance from other people.
• consider asking people to wear a face covering or take a rapid lateral flow test if you’re meeting them indoors.

Covid symptoms

The NHS lists the most current Covid symptoms as:

• a blocked or runny nose
• feeling tired or exhausted
• a sore throat
• a new, continuous cough – coughing a lot for more than an hour, or three or more coughing episodes in 24 hours
• an aching body
• shortness of breath
• a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste
• feeling sick or being sick
• a headache
• diarrhoea
• loss of appetite
• a high temperature – you may feel hot, cold or shivery, or your skin is hot to touch on your chest or back

Self-isolation is no longer mandatory if you have Covid or Covid symptoms, however the NHS recommends trying to remain at home and avoid contact with others if you or your child has symptoms and either a high temperature and/or do not feel well enough to attend work, school, or carry out other normal activities.

“You can go back to your normal activities when you feel better or do not have a high temperature. If your child has mild symptoms such as a runny nose, sore throat or mild cough, and they feel well enough, they can go to school or childcare.”