The Government’s Department of Education has launched a COVID19 (Coronavirus) helpline for staff, parents and young people.
Helpline details:
- Phone: 0800 046 8687
- Email: DfE.coronavirushelpline@education.gov.uk
- Opening hours: 8am to 6pm (Monday to Friday) The latest guidance for education settings is available online.
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 (known as ‘coronavirus’) is a virus that causes respiratory difficulties and symptoms affecting a person’s nose, sinuses, upper throat and lungs.
Symptoms can appear flu-like and can show up anywhere from 2 to 14 days after exposure to the airborne virus. Early on, they’re a lot like the common cold. You might notice:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
Chief Medical Officers have advised the risk to the UK public is moderate. It is important to note that there has been less than 100 confirmed cases in the UK, with eight people already making a full recovery.
How can I help prevent the spread of coronavirus?
What to do if you suspect coronavirus?
If you have the full list of Covid-19 symptoms, please call 111 immediately to discuss next steps and self-isolate as a precautionary measure.
The UK Chief Medical Officers are advising anyone who has travelled to the UK from mainland China, Thailand, Japan, Italy, Republic of Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia or Macau in the last 14 days and is experiencing cough or fever or shortness of breath, to STAY INDOORS AND CALL NHS 111, even if symptoms are mild.
Stay informed
- You can learn more about COVID-19 on the NHS website: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/
- Stay informed with the latest news updates by following these social tags: @educationgovuk and use #COVID-19 or #Coronavirus.