Coronavirus & Self-Isolation

When to self-isolate

Self-isolate straight away and get a PCR test (a test that is sent to the lab) on GOV.UK as soon as possible if you have any of these 3 symptoms of COVID-19, even if they are mild:

a high temperature
a new, continuous cough
a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste

You should also self-isolate straight away if:

you've tested positive for COVID-19 – this means you have the virus
someone you live with has symptoms or tested positive (unless you are not required to self-isolate – check below if this applies to you)
you've been told to self-isolate following contact with someone who tested positive – find out what to do if you're told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace or the NHS COVID-19 app

You may need to quarantine when you arrive in England from abroad. Check the quarantine rules when entering England on GOV.UK

When you do not need to self-isolate

If someone you live with has symptoms of COVID-19, or has tested positive for COVID-19, you will not need to self-isolate if any of the following apply:

you're fully vaccinated – this means 14 days have passed since your final dose of a COVID-19 vaccine given by the NHS
you're under 18 years, 6 months old
you're taking part or have taken part in a COVID-19 vaccine trial
you're not able to get vaccinated for medical reasons

Even if you do not have symptoms, you should still: