Official information and advice

Coronavirus (COVID-19) - official information and advice

The government has removed all remaining domestic restrictions in England and free NHS testing for COVID-19 has ended for most people in England.

The government's new guidance on Living safely with respiratory infections, including COVID-19 - GOV.UK highlights the simple things you can do in your daily life to help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory infections and protect those at highest risk. Things you can choose to do are:

  • get vaccinated - visit: How to get a coronavirus vaccine - NHS
  • let fresh air in if meeting others indoors
  • practise good hygiene:
    • wash your hands
    • cover your coughs and sneezes
    • clean your surroundings frequently
  • Wear a face covering or a face mask

Get vaccinated

Getting fully vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself, your family and your community from COVID-19. 

Getting tested

Free testing for COVID-19 from the NHS has ended for most people in England. Most people in England are no longer advised to get tested, but there are a small number of people who will still be able to get free COVID-19 tests from the NHS.

If you still want to get tested and you're not eligible for a free NHS test, you must pay for a COVID-19 test yourself. You can buy a COVID-19 test from some pharmacies and retailers, in person or online.

Find out more about Changes to testing for COVID-19 - NHS.

What to do if you have COVID-19

The list of COVID-19 symptoms has been updated. Find out about the symptoms of COVID-19 and what to do if you or your child has them - NHS.

It is still possible to catch and spread COVID-19, even if you are fully vaccinated.

If you are unwell, try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people. 

You are no longer legally required to self-isolate if you test positive for COVID-19 and self-isolation support payments are no longer available.