NHS urges self-care and delayed GP visits as Covid cases rise

Hospital data from the UK Health Security Agency indicate that the proportion of Covid-positive patients in England rose from 5.9 percent to 7 percent in the week to 20 September, alongside higher admission numbers. In response, the NHS has updated its guidance, urging anyone who suspects infection to stay at home, drink fluids, rest and use over-the-counter pain relievers if needed. Lateral flow testing is not mandatory, though free tests are available to those who qualify.

If a test returns positive, adults should isolate for five days and avoid contact with high-risk individuals for ten days. The service stresses that medical advice should still be obtained promptly if symptoms become severe, such as sudden chest pain or extreme breathlessness, especially for vulnerable groups like pregnant people or those over 60.