With the looming arrival of winter and an increasing number of Coronavirus cases, health officials are urging people in Cumbria to follow COVID-19 guidance, to reduce local infection rates, save lives and protect the NHS.
A concerning issue is the amount of people that have had a COVID test, but then fail to self-isolate until they receive a result.
People are being reminded that they must self-isolate if: they have symptoms that could be from COVID-19, if they are awaiting a test result, or if they are confirmed as positive for Coronavirus.
Self-isolation rules are also in place if you live, or are in a ‘bubble’ with, someone in any of the groups listed above.
In particular, it is important that people who have symptoms or have arranged a test, self-isolate until results are received as per government guidance.
COVID-19 symptoms include – however mild – a new continuous cough, a high temperature, or a loss or change of sense of smell or taste.
If you have any of these symptoms, even if mild, stay at home and arrange to have a test. You must begin to self-isolate for 10 days from when your symptoms start.
Stay at home until a test result is received, as this will determine whether you and those in your household bubble need to continue isolating, and if so, for how long.
Councillor Judith Derbyshire, Housing and Health Portfolio Holder at Eden District Council, said: “Self-isolating is clearly one of the most powerful tools to stop the spread of the virus and protect our friends and family, our community and the NHS.
“If you’re awaiting the results of a test, or if you have symptoms that might be because of COVID, please stay at home.
“With the R rate rising across the country, it’s vitally important that if people are told to isolate, that they do so right away.
“If you have symptoms of COVID-19, have received a positive test result, or have been told you are a contact with someone who has, self-isolation is the only way to guarantee you won’t pass COVID-19 to others.”
Support is available for those affected by Coronavirus.
The government has launched its new national Test and Trace Support scheme. If you are on a low-income and are required to self-isolate, you could be eligible for a £500 payment. For information and to apply visit www.eden.gov.uk/coronavirus-covid-19/government-national-test-and-trace-support-scheme/
Worried about your finances? If so, you’re not alone. If you are experiencing financial hardship, it is always best to get advice sooner rather than later.
- If you are struggling to buy food, or essentials you can contact the Ways to Welfare community support team at cumbria.gov.uk/welfare/support.asp
- Citizens Advice can also provide advice about what benefits you may be entitled to and how to claim. Visit: citizensadvicecumbria.org.uk/.
- National Debtline is a charity offering free, independent and confidential debt advice. Visit: nationaldebtline.org/.
- Cumbria Law Centre can provide advice on employment, housing, debt and benefits. Visit: cumbrialawcentre.org.uk/
- If you are in need of advice about homelessness, visit edenha.org.uk or telephone the Eden Housing Association 24-hour support line on 01768 861499.
Financial difficulties often cause stress and anxiety. It is important to remember that it is normal to feel this way and that help is available.
- Togetherall is a service offering free online support to anyone aged 16+. Visit: togetherall.com/
- Kooth is an online service offering free, safe and anonymous support to young people aged 11 to 18. Visit: kooth.com/
- Mindline Cumbria offers support and guidance about mental health over the phone, via text or email. Visit: mindlinecumbria.org/
- If you need to talk to someone urgently, the Samaritans are available 24/7 on 116 123 and at samaritans.org/
