Covid-19 updates

There are currently no coronavirus (COVID-19) restrictions in the UK. 

Current guidance says that Covid-19 should now be treated in the same way as other respiratory illnesses. This includes getting vaccinated, ventilating spaces, practising good hygiene and wearing a face covering in crowded areas. For the latest information from the government and NHS please see links below.

Symptoms of Covid-19

The government has updated the list of symptoms of Covid-19, flu, and other common respiratory infections. These include:

• A continuous cough
• A high temperature or chills
• A change to your sense of smell or taste
• Shortness of breath
• Unexplained tiredness
• Muscle aches and pains
• Loss of appetite
• A headache that is unusual or lasting longer than usual
• A sore throat
• A stuffy or runny nose
• Diarrhoea, feeling sick or being sick.

What to do if you have symptoms

Free testing for Covid-19 has now ended for most people in the UK. You can find a list of who can get a free test on the NHS website here. You can also choose to pay for a test. 

The NHS advises that people who have symptoms of a respiratory illness should rest and drink plenty of fluids. You can take over-the-counter medication such as paracetamol, but antibiotics are not needed.

When to stay at home

If you have symptoms of a respiratory infection such as Covid-19, and you have a high temperature or you don’t feel well enough to do your usual activities, you should stay at home and avoid contact with other people. It is especially important to avoid close contact with anyone who is at higher risk of becoming seriously unwell. You can return to Nescot when you no longer have a high temperature, or you no longer feel too unwell to attend college.

If you have tested positive for Covid-19 are advised stay at home for five days. People under the age of 18 are advised to self-isolate for three full days.

Reducing the spread of Covid-19

The NHS recommends that we all take simple steps to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses such as Covid-19. This includes:

• Getting vaccinated. You can find out more on the NHS website here.
• Letting fresh air in. Many viruses are spread through the air, and the amount of virus can build up in poorly ventilated areas. Letting fresh air in by opening a window or door, even for a few minutes at a time, helps to remove air that could contain virus particles and reduces the chance of spreading infections.
• Practising good hygiene, including washing your hands, covering your coughs and sneezes, and cleaning your surroundings regularly
• Wearing a face covering when you’re in a crowded or enclosed space
• Staying at home when you have a high temperature or are feeling unwell.

You can find out more about steps you can take to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses include Covid-19 on the Germ Defence website recommended by the UK government. 

The Living with Covid strategy includes provisions for colleges to make temporary changes if there is an outbreak. This page will be updated straight away if this happens.

There is an NHS vaccination centre in the college car park. The centre runs drop-in first, second and booster jabs for Nescot staff and students. Please look for information in the college or ask at the centre. You will need to bring your college ID, your Covid vaccination card, and ideally your NHS number. If you are unsure about receiving a vaccination you can speak to the doctor or nurse in charge.

Updates to this advice

We will continue to update this page when necessary and any urgent messages are posted on our social media channels. Students can also find updates on Nescomms, and staff can find additional information on SharePoint.