What you need to know
You can access all the up to date information and advice about coronavirus here:
https://covid.reciteme.com/nhs-novel/
You can spread the virus even if you have no symptoms. People who are ill may have a cough or a high temperature.
If you need any treatment with coronavirus symptoms, you will not have to pay. You do not need to worry, your information will not be shared with the UK Government.
Please contact ‘999’ if you need urgent medical attention.
Public Health Wales has also created a coronavirus help booklet. It is available in many different languages:
‘Doctors of the World’ has provided information in many different languages:
https://www.doctorsoftheworld.org.uk/coronavirus-information/#
C.A.L.L is a mental health helpline for Wales. It operates 7 days a week, 365 days a year. It offers a confidential listening and support service during the coronavirus crisis.
If you need to speak to someone, you can call the following free phone number:
0800 132 737 or;
Text ‘Help’ to 81066
For information of any other help available, please visit this website:
http://www.callhelpline.org.uk/
Doctors of the World’ has provided information in many different languages:
During the Covid-19 crisis, your local authority should provide accommodation for refused asylum seekers. They should also provide this for anyone who is homeless with 'No recourse to public funds'.
Use the ‘Your Local Area’ page to find out how to contact your local authority to register for accommodation.
Your information should not be shared with the UK Government during the Covid-19 outbreak.
During the Covid-19 outbreak, schools are closed and children are being asked to learn at home. If you do not have access to the technology you need to do this, your local authority should be able to help. Use the 'Your Local Area' page to find out how to contact your local authority to access technology.
Free School Meals
Access to free school meals is likely to be different during the Covid-19 outbreak. Local authorities provide funds to make sure asylum seekers can continue to feed their children. Use the 'Your Local area' page to find out how to contact your local authority to access free school meals.
Learning English
Some resources are still available for those trying to learn English. These resources are available below:
Headway online www.elt.oup.com Free to access, Entry level 1- Level 2
ESOL Courses (beginners) https://www.esolcourses.com/content/topicsmenu/beginners.html , or https://en.diglin.eu/
During the Covid-19 outbreak, some of the asylum processes have changed or are on hold. Every person’s case will be different. It is important that you do not ignore official letters. Seek individual legal advice from a legal advisor in your area.
During the Covid-19 outbreak, the UK government has a scheme to avoid people losing their jobs.
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/claim-for-wages-through-the-coronavirus-job-retention-scheme
Vitamin D deficiency
We are currently advising people to stay at home. For most people, this will mean being indoors for most of the day. It could mean that people are not getting enough vitamin D from exposure to sunshine.
Vitamin D helps to keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy. It also plays an important role in the immune system, which helps our body fight infection.
The risk of vitamin D deficiency is higher among certain groups. This includes pregnant women, babies and young children. People who have darker skin may be deficient too. This is because their bodies are not able to make as much vitamin D.
It is recommended that people in groups above take a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms of vitamin D.
For further information, please visit:
How to get tested
Anyone with coronavirus symptoms should self-isolate and get a test. Coronavirus symptoms are:
a new continuous cough
a high temperature
loss of or change to sense of smell or taste
Your local health board may offer you a test if you feel unwell, even if you don’t have coronavirus symptoms. Unless you develop one of the three recognised symptoms, you and your household do not have to self-isolate.
How to get a test if you have coronavirus symptoms
If you have coronavirus symptoms you need to take a test within the first 5 days of having symptoms. The test checks if you have coronavirus right now and not if you’ve already had the virus.
You can apply for a test for yourself or someone in your household with symptoms. This includes adults and children, including those under 5.
Book a test online
Book a test online (on GOV.UK)
You will be asked to input your post code. The system will offer you appointments at the nearest testing sites with available slots.
If there are no tests available, try again later, as tests become available during the day.
Book a test by telephone
Call 119 between 7am and 11pm (calls are free).
If you have hearing or speech difficulties: call 18001119.
This service is available to help you book a test, but it cannot provide clinical advice.
It is available for support throughout the testing process. It offers support in up to 650 languages, including British Sign Language (BSL).
Assisted COVID-19 testing at home
If you are unable to do a test at home yourself and you cannot attend a test site you should call 119 and explain that you need an assisted COVID-19 test at home.
The call handler will give you a phone number for your local health board. Call this number to arrange a home visit.
Your local health board will arrange a date and time to assist you with the test. They will either call you before arriving or agree a password with you which the testers can use to identify themselves when they arrive at your door.
Results of the test will be sent by text message, so you will need to provide a mobile number. This can be yours or someone who can act as a delegated contact for you.
Taking the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test
The PCR test looks for the genetic code of the virus. The test involves taking a swab of the inside of your nose and the back of your throat, using a long cotton bud.
You can do the swab yourself or someone can do it for you. Parents or guardians have to swab test children aged 11 or under.
Test results
The system and process used to notify you of your test results varies depending on the method you chose. When you book the test you will be given more information about how you’ll get your result. You should receive your test result within 72 hours.
If you’ve had a test at a:
mass testing centre
mobile testing unit
local testing site
If you are a critical worker and had a test at a community testing unit operated by the local health board, please contact your local health board for questions about test results.
If you’ve received your test result and have questions or need further advice, please visit Public Health Wales information for individuals tested for COVID-19 infection.
Testing people with no symptoms (asymptomatic)
Almost 1 in 3 people who have coronavirus, do not have any symptoms. They could be spreading the disease without knowing it.
Get rapid lateral flow COVID-19 tests if you do not have symptoms.
If you need medical advice about your symptoms:
Contact the 111 online coronavirus service or your GP if you feel your symptoms aren’t improving or you need advice.
If you don’t have internet access, call 111. In a medical emergency, dial 999 and inform the call handler or operator that you or your relative have COVID-19 symptoms.
Until we have a vaccine or treatment for COVID-19, we need to stop the spread of coronavirus by testing and contact tracing.
The NHS COVID-19 app is an important part of our Test Trace Protect programme to control the spread of COVID-19. The app will be used, alongside traditional contact tracing, to notify users if they come into contact with someone who later tests positive for coronavirus.
The app allows people to report symptoms, order a coronavirus test, check in to venues by scanning a QR code and it helps the NHS trace individuals that may have coronavirus.
The app will help the NHS understand if the virus is spreading in a particular area, and so local authorities can respond quickly to stop it spreading further and save lives.
The app does this while protecting a user’s anonymity. Nobody, including the government, will know who or where a particular user is.
The app is available for download from the Apple app store or Google Play store.
By downloading and using the app, you can help keep your family and friends safe. The more people who use the app the greater our chances of reducing the spread of the virus.
How the app supports you
If you choose to download the app, six key features will help you and your community.
Trace
The app detects and logs other nearby app users using random unique IDs. If any of those users later test positive for coronavirus (COVID-19), you will receive an exposure alert with advice on what to do. If you are under 18, you are advised to show this alert to a trusted adult.
Alert
When you first register for the app you will be asked for the first half of your postcode. You can check the app every day to see whether where you live has become a high risk area for coronavirus. If it is, you will also receive a notification to let you know. This will help you make daily decisions to protect yourself and those you love.
Check-in
The app allows you to record when you visit a venue by “checking-in” when you arrive, using the venue’s QR code. The app records your arrival at the venue without recording any personal information. You will receive a notification if that venue is later identified by health authorities as ‘high risk’ due to confirmed coronavirus cases at the time of your visit.
Symptoms
If you feel unwell, you can use the app to check if your symptoms could be related to coronavirus (COVID-19).
Test
If you have coronavirus symptoms, the app will take you to a website where you can book a test to see if you have coronavirus or not.
Isolate
If you have been advised by the app to self-isolate, the app provides a countdown timer so that you can keep track of how long you need to self-isolate. When you reach the end of your self-isolation period, the app will send you a notification reminder with a link to the latest advice for you.
You may be entitled to a payment of £750 under the Test, Trace, Protect self-isolation support scheme. Find out more information about how to apply through the COVID-19 app, on NHS COVID-19 app support.
How the app works
The NHS COVID-19 app uses your smartphone’s existing “Exposure Logging” feature to work out if you have spent time near other app users who have tested positive for coronavirus (COVID-19).
For this to work, your Bluetooth needs to be turned on: this will not drain your battery as the app uses “Bluetooth Low Energy”.
It will use your postcode district to tell you if your area is at risk. When you download the app you will be asked to share the first 4 letters and digits of your postcode with NHS Wales. A postcode district generally contains about 8,000 addresses. This means that your specific location cannot be identified.
Your personal privacy and data
The app will not hold any personal information about you or track your location. The app uses random unique IDs to detect other NHS COVID-19 app users so that alerts can be sent. Using these random IDs means that your interactions with other app users remain private. All records, such as date, time and how near you are to other users, are stored on your phone only. You can also delete the app and all the data it stores, whenever you choose.
The app cannot be used:
to identify you
to track you
to check if you are self-isolating
by law enforcement
Further information about the NHS COVID-19 app
Further information about the app and how to use it can be found on the NHS COVID-19 app support website.
Recent and upcoming changes
From 15 January
Up to 500 people can be present at outdoor events. This does not include those participating in a team sport event, meaning 500 spectators can be present.
From 21 January
There will no longer be any legal limits on the number of people that can meet outdoors
COVID Pass needed for large outdoor events
From 28 January
Nightclubs will be able to re-open
COVID Pass needed for large indoor events, nightclubs, cinemas, theatres and concert halls
Working from home remains important but moves from law to guidance
In hospitality, no restrictions on meeting people and no requirement for table service or 2 metre physical distancing
More detailed guidance is available in the following areas:
main risks to you and others of exposure to coronavirus and how you can minimise them
We all need to continue to work together to keep Wales safe and keep levels of coronavirus under control.
Always:
get fully vaccinated to protect yourself from COVID-19
book a test if you have any COVID-19 symptoms, however mild
self-isolate if you have any COVID-19 symptoms, or if you’re notified by a contact tracer
self-isolate for 10 days and take PCR tests on day 2 and 8 if you are identified as a contact and are not fully vaccinated
take Lateral Flow Device (LFD) tests every day for 7 days. This is if you are identified as a contact and are a fully vaccinated adult or aged between 5 and 17
wear a face mask in indoor public places
Take lateral flow tests twice a week if you don’t have any symptoms and on days when you’re seeing other people. Leave gaps between meeting different groups of people
wash hands regularly and use hand santizer
To stay safe in our own homes, we are advising everyone follows five simple measures:
limit the number of people visiting your home
if people are visiting, make sure they take a lateral flow test before they come
meeting outdoors is better than indoors. If you’re meeting indoors make sure it’s well ventilated
space out any visits
and do not forget about social distancing and washing your hands
Socialising
The more people we see, the greater the risk of spreading or catching the virus.
Restricting the number of people you socialise with. Leaving a day in between is the safest approach. If people are visiting you, open windows or doors for 10 minutes regularly to let the virus out. Better still, meet outside.
Be especially careful if you’re seeing elderly people or people with health conditions.
Before you go out, take a lateral flow device test. St ay home if you test positive and follow self-isolation guidance.
Remember your NHS COVID Pass or proof of negative lateral flow test if going to a venue that requires one.
Vaccination
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It’s never too late to say yes to the vaccine. If you yet to have your first (or second) dose, please come forward now.
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We’re working to bring forward booster jabs for as many eligible people as possible. When your offer arrives, prioritise it over everything else.
We have sought to keep any differences with other parts of the UK to a minimum. We are working very closely with the other nations.
It is important to understand that the rules here in Wales are different.
This guidance and FAQs applies to Wales. For the rules or guidance in the other parts of the UK, please visit the sites for England, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
Is coronavirus still spreading?
The pandemic is not over and the virus continues to circulate. We may see cases increase as we mix more with others. The emergence of the omicron variant is a serious development in the ongoing pandemic. We all need to take steps to keep ourselves safe.
Vaccination and boosters are one of our best defences against the spread of coronavirus. No vaccine is 100% effective and some fully vaccinated people could still become infected or pass the virus to others without knowing. The more people that are vaccinated, the lower the risk to everyone else.
It is really important for everyone to say yes to vaccination, including the booster. We should also continue to think about what else we can keep doing to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe. But we appreciate there are some people who are not able to take up the offer of a vaccine, or for whom the vaccine does not work as well.
Vaccines have weakened the link between infections, serious illness and hospitalisation. That link has not been broken. The higher the rates of coronavirus circulating, the more people will get COVID-19 and some will also suffer with long-COVID.
How can I protect myself and others and prevent the spread of coronavirus?
We all have to play our part in stopping the spread of the virus. Transmission of coronavirus is most strongly associated with close, prolonged contact in indoor places. The highest risks are in crowded and poorly ventilated spaces over extended periods.
The most effective way to minimise risks, especially serious illness, is to take up the offer of vaccination, where we can. Both doses of vaccine plus a booster are needed to have protection. It takes at least two weeks (14 days) after a booster vaccine before a person will have the full protection from the vaccine.
Taking this responsibility and becoming vaccinated means we are considerate of others. We can get back to doing the things we’ve missed the most. It is never too late to get the vaccine and walk-in centres are open for first, second and booster doses. Businesses and employers should encourage their workforce to take up the vaccine offer.
Even if you’ve been fully vaccinated, remember the best ways to minimise risks:
you must work from home wherever reasonably practical to do so
get tested and self-isolate, even for mild symptoms
meet outside, it is safer than inside
limit the time and number of people you interact with
keep your distance when you can
wash your hands and wear a face mask in all indoor public places
How to get a COVID-19 vaccine?
All UK authorised COVID vaccines are safe. They provide a high level of protection against infection and severe illness. We are currently providing the Pfizer BioNTech and Moderna vaccines. They are available through all our vaccination centres. These vaccines are being offered for all first doses regardless of age
To make an appointment for a vaccination or booster, contact your local health board or have a look at their website to know how to book a slot. You can also find out about their walk-in vaccination settings.
For more information on vaccines, see the latest vaccine guidance.
I am classed as clinically extremely vulnerable what precautions should I take?
If you are clinically extremely vulnerable you can follow the same rules/guidance as everyone else in Wales. You are also advised to take extra care in considering the ways you can minimise risk to keep yourself safe. In addition to keeping contacts to a minimum, you may wish to think particularly carefully about taking precautions when meeting others you do not usually meet with. This will reduce the risk of catching or spreading COVID-19. For example:
Meeting outside if possible. The particles containing the virus that causes COVID-19 are quickly blown away. This makes it less likely that they will be breathed in by another person
If indoors, making sure the space is well ventilated. If you meet inside by opening windows and doors where you can to let in plenty of fresh air
Washing your hands regularly and avoiding touching your face.
Read guidance for the clinically extremely vulnerable.
Should I take any extra precautions if I am pregnant?
If you are pregnant, you should follow the same official guidance provided for everyone. If you are more than 27 weeks pregnant, or if you are pregnant and have an underlying health condition that puts you at a greater risk of severe illness from COVID-19 at any point in pregnancy, you may want to consider limiting close contact with people you do not normally meet with regularly in order to reduce the risk of catching COVID-19. It would provide greater protection for you and your baby if the other people you meet with have been fully vaccinated. You can find further advice on pregnancy and coronavirus (COVID-19).
If you are pregnant or considering pregnancy and haven’t yet been vaccinated, you are advised to get vaccinated as soon as possible. You can find further advice on pregnancy, breastfeeding, fertility and coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination (on www.nhs.uk)
How many people are allowed in my home?
The only legal limits on the number of people that can meet in each other’s homes are a maximum of:
30 indoors
500 outdoors. This does not include those participating in a team sport event. This means that 500 spectators can be present
You should still think about the risks of having people in your home. You should also consider how you can minimise those risks.
We need to continue doing those things we know protect us and others. For example:
if possible, meet people in your garden or outdoors
wash your hands frequently and sneeze into tissues you throw away
get fresh air flowing indoors by opening windows and doors
limit the number of people you meet at any one occasion, the amount of time you spend with people and maintain physical distancing where you can
take a lateral flow device test before you visit with other people, including in your home or theirs
Are there any rules on who I can meet, where and when?
We all want to meet friends again but think about what is the most sensible thing for you to do to protect your family.
It’s less risky to see the same one or two people regularly than to see lots of different people occasionally. The fewer people we meet and the less we are in crowds, the less chance we have to become infected with, or to spread, coronavirus. This is particularly important when rates of coronavirus are high.
you must not meet with more than 5 others in pubs, cafes, restaurants and other regulated premises
additional measures, including controlled entry and table service, will be required in all licensed premises
a maximum of 30 people can attend indoor activities
a maximum of 500 people outdoor activities. This does not include those participating in a team sport event. This means 500 spectators can be present.
face coverings must be worn in indoor public places other than when seated to eat or drink
Private homes or public places
You can meet others in private homes. We are advising that you should think carefully about the number of people you meet. If you are meeting with different groups of people at different times, you should leave at least a day between those gatherings.
You are not able to have large gatherings of more than 30 people indoors or 500 people outdoors in private homes and gardens. You could be subject to a Fixed Penalty Notice for any breach of these numbers.
We are also advising everyone to take a Lateral Flow test (LFD) before you meet anyone socially. This is whether you are meeting them inside or outside. If the LFD test is positive, you should self-isolate and follow self-isolation guidance immediately. You are no longer advised to have a follow-up PCR test to confirm the result. This is unless you are in a clinically vulnerable group, which may need early access to treatment or have been advised to do so as part of a research or surveillance programme.
Please remember, if you have any symptoms you should continue to test using PCR and follow self-isolation guidance where applicable.
We are more likely to catch coronavirus from – and pass it on to – people we are in close contact with every day. The omicron variant spreads particularly easily. The safest thing to do is to avoid contact with other people you do not live with. We strongly recommend you limit who you have in your home and consider forming an exclusive household with a limited number of other households.
You are asked to consider not just what you can do and what the law allows you to do but what you should do. What is the right thing to do to minimise the spread of coronavirus. In particular, we ask you to:
please try and be restrained about how many different people you see. It is better to see the same five people regularly than to see lots of different people occasionally
please try to maintain 2 metre physical distance. This includes outdoors, from anyone you do not live with
avoid activities that might increase the risk of transmission. For example shouting to be heard over loud music, or singing in close proximity.
meet people you do not live with outside if possible. If meeting inside make sure the room is well ventilated.
Restaurants, cafes and pubs
Venues such as restaurants, cafes and pubs are required to take all reasonable measures to minimise the risk of exposure to coronavirus. For example:
customers will be encouraged to pre-book with details of all members of the group
contact details will be required for contact tracing purposes
entry to the premises will be controlled
licenced premises, such as pubs, will be providing table service only
all food and drink should be consumed at tables
physical distancing measures will be applied, such as tables being spaced out
face coverings must be worn other than when seated to eat or drink
You can visit outdoor and indoor spaces of licensed premise such as cafés, restaurants, pubs and bars with people you live with.
If you want to visit licensed premises with people you do not live with, then you should meet up with no more than five other people.
Can organised activities still take place?
Yes, organised activities can still take place within limits. Certain reasonable measures should be in place to protect everyone from the spread of the virus.
Organised activities encompass a broad range of activities that can be attended by people of any age. This includes activities such as:
exercise classes;
meetings of religious groups and;
support groups.
During these activities, up to 500 people of any age will be able to gather from a mix of households outdoors. This does not include those participating in a team sport event, meaning 500 spectators can be present outdoors. Up to 30 people from that mix of households will be able to gather indoors.
Organised activities do not include activities such as parties or wider social gatherings of families and friends. Organised outdoor activities must not take place in the gardens or grounds of private homes. Alcohol must not be consumed as part of this activity.
An organised activity must be organised by a business, public body or a charitable, benevolent, educational or philanthropic institution, a club or political organisation, or the national governing body of a sport or other activity. The organiser of the activity must meet requirements in the Regulations to carry out a risk assessment and take all reasonable measures to minimise the risk of exposure to coronavirus.
There are different rules for a team sport fixture such as a community rugby match.
Can children take part in organised activities for their development and wellbeing?
Yes – organised activities for the development and well-being of children are permitted. These activities could include a range of clubs or classes attended by children under 18. For example:
sports clubs;
parent and baby/toddler groups;
youth groups and;
religious groups.
This does not include activities such as children’s birthday parties or wider social gatherings of families and friends.
Why have you not made rules about people mixing in each other’s homes?
We are not making intrusive legal provisions about what people do in their own homes. We are not reintroducing rules on mixing in people’s homes because some circumstances have changed. We now have a population which is largely vaccinated and the booster is being rolled out rapidly. Lateral flow tests are easily available.
We are, advising the people of Wales to be very careful and to limit their social interaction.
Why are events not allowed? Why is a bar or a fairground at an event treated differently to any other bar or fairground?
Large events are not allowed because one of their purposes is to attract people to come together in one place. This will mean additional mixing both at the event itself and in hospitality premises near the event. It also generally involves large numbers of people travelling together at the same time. This includes on public transport to go to the event and to leave it. A bar or fairground that is permanent will not attract the same numbers of people to come together for one purpose.
How many people can attend a team sport fixture such as a community rugby match?
The simple rule is no more than:
30 people indoors;
500 people outdoors. This does not include those participating in a team sport event, meaning 500 spectators can be present
Can I attend wedding, civil partnership or alternative wedding receptions and wakes?
Yes. There are no legal limits on the number of people who can attend a wedding, civil partnership or alternative wedding receptions and wake. Reasonable measures should be taken to minimise the risk of exposure to and spread of coronavirus.
The numbers at wedding, civil partnership receptions or wakes will be determined by venues and physical distancing.
You should aim to keep 2 metre physical distance from anyone you do not live with as much as possible.
We ask that you take a LFD test on the day of the event, whether you are fully vaccinated or not. If you receive a positive result, you should not attend, you should self-isolate and take a PCR test.
Likewise, if you are ill and/or displaying symptoms you should self-isolate and take a PCR test.
Hospitality rules will apply during the wedding, civil partnership receptions or wakes. This includes:
table service being provided;
2m physical distance between groups of a maximum of six people from up to six households or an individual household if larger and;
wearing a face covering when not seated at a table.
Face coverings can be removed temporarily for the wedding ceremony.
Can I have live entertainment at my wedding, civil partnership or alternative wedding reception?
Live entertainment, including DJ or a band is permitted at a wedding but all attendees must remain seated. Dancing is not allowed at this time as hospitality rules apply.
The only exception is the first dance for the couple themselves. This will be permitted.
Have the rules on hospital visits changed?
The current hospital visiting guidance is unchanged. The focus remains on ensuring the delicate balance between protecting the many vulnerable individuals who are receiving treatment in our hospitals and allowing visiting which is important for the wellbeing of patients and friends and families. The guidance allows health boards and trusts to determine visiting policies based on local assessment of risk. This takes into account prevalence of COVID-19 in the local area and any in-hospital transmission. You should not visit anyone in hospital setting for 10 days if you have been identified as a close contact of someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 or after higher risk activities.
Read more information on hospital guidance.
Have the rules on care home visits changed?
The revised guidance will enable each care home resident to nominate an “essential visitor” who may continue to visit their relative or friend indoors during an outbreak at the care home as long as they have tested negative. This will ensure that people can continue to benefit from regular visits when wider restrictions on routine visits maybe in place. Providers will need to put the necessary arrangements in place to support this change. You should not visit anyone in a care setting for 10 days if you have been identified as a close contact of someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 or after higher risk activities.
Read more information on care home guidance.
When will I need to wear a face covering?
Face coverings must be worn in all indoor public places, and public transport, including taxis.
Both employees and customers are also legally required to wear a face covering indoors. This is unless they are exempt::
in hospitality settings such as restaurant, café, pub and clubs (including private members clubs)
auditorium of a theatre, cinema or concert hall and the viewing areas of an indoor arena or stadium
at a wedding, civil partnership or alternative wedding reception
In mixed use venues, where food or drink is consumed in part of a premises you must wear face coverings on the premises except when seated at a table in the area set aside for eating and drinking.
Read more about face coverings guidance for the public
Read more about face coverings in education guidance
Do I still need to keep 2 metres away from others?
You should aim to keep 2 metre physical distance from anyone you do not live with as much as possible.
From 27 December, licenced premises must ensure there is physical distancing between individual households or groups of up to six people from a maximum of six households at their premises and must provide table service only.
Physical distancing is a key way to stop coronavirus spreading.
Staying at least 2 metres away from people you do not live with makes a big difference in reducing the chances of the virus spreading. The closer we get and the longer we spend face-to-face with others, the greater the risk of catching the virus.
If you become infected keep your distance from other members of your household as much as possible. This is especially if they are clinically extremely vulnerable.
Most businesses, workplaces and other places are still likely to require some degree of physical distancing. There is still a legal requirement for such places to take reasonable measures to minimise the risk of exposure to coronavirus.
How do I know if I have COVID-19 and how do I get tested if I think I have COVID-19
Most people with coronavirus have at least one of the three main symptoms which are:
a high temperature: this means you feel hot to touch on your chest or back
a new, continuous cough: this means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours
a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste. This means you've noticed you cannot smell or taste anything, or things smell or taste different to normal
Anyone displaying any of these three symptoms of COVID-19 should stay at home and self-isolate while making arrangements to be tested. If the test result is negative the person can return to their regular routine when they are well enough to do so.
When should I take a Lateral Flow Device test (LFD)?
If you are planning to visit somewhere, we ask that you take a LFD test before you go out. This is even if you don’t have any COVID-19 symptoms, whether fully vaccinated or not.
If you’re planning to spend time in enclosed spaces, visiting vulnerable people, or travelling elsewhere, take a test on the day you go. You should still take a LFD test twice a week to check you don’t have COVID-19.
1 in 3 people with coronavirus don’t have any symptoms but can still infect others. Getting tested regularly is one way to know if you have the virus and could be unknowingly giving it to others.
You’ll get your results in just 30 minutes. Whether it’s positive, negative or void, you should report your test result on gov.uk as soon as you can.
If the LFD test is positive, you should report your result and follow self-isolation guidance immediately. You are no longer advised to have a follow-up PCR test to confirm the result. This is unless you are in a clinically vulnerable group, which may need early access to treatment or have been advised to do so as part of a research or surveillance programme.
Please remember, if you have any symptoms you should continue to test using PCR and follow self-isolation guidance where applicable.
Lateral flow tests are available for FREE to everyone in Wales. You can get yours by:
ordering online for home delivery
collecting from your pharmacy.
collecting from a local collection point
I have been asked to take an antibody test. Can you explain why?
Since 24 August 2021 everyone over the age of 18 was offered to opt-in to antibody testing when registering for a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test on the online government portal. Selected individuals, out of those who opt-in and test positive for COVID-19 following a PCR test, are posted two finger prick antibody tests to use at home and return for analysis. This is part of a UK wide antibody programme to support our understanding of vaccine effectiveness and immune response to COVID-19 known as the Post Positive PCR Antibody Testing Initiative (PPPATI).
For further information on PPPATI.
What are the rules on self-isolation?
Self-isolating when you have symptoms, have tested positive for COVID-19; or have been identified as a close contact and you have been told to isolate by a contact tracer is one of the most important steps you can take to protect others. Self-isolation helps to prevent people who have tested positive for COVID-19 passing it on to their friends, family and wider community, including their work colleagues. The requirement to self-isolate following a positive test or notification by the Test, Trace, Protect contact tracers (by phone, email or letter) in Wales is a legal requirement.
For further information on Test, Trace, Protect please see the Test, Trace, Protect strategy guidance.
For further information on Self-isolation please see the Self-isolation guidance.
What support is available for recovery from COVID-19?
Long COVID is a term used to describe signs and symptoms that continue or develop after COVID‑19. These might include fatigue, breathlessness, or heart, physical or psychological impacts.
Most people with long COVID are likely to need a rehabilitation approach. Health and care services in the community are ideally placed to provide this. In some cases, you may need to go to hospital for further investigation. If this is the case, you will be referred by your GP.
Further information on getting support is available, where you can also find links to find out more about support from your local health board and other sources of information, including the COVID Recovery App.
What do businesses and employers have to do to keep me safe?
Business, employers and other organisations have a duty to protect their employees and customers.
There is a legal requirement for businesses, employers and other organisations to carry out a risk assessment. They should take reasonable measures to minimise the risk of exposure to and spread of coronavirus. This includes taking reasonable measures to ensure 2 metres distance is kept between people.
There are a wide range of things that may need to be put in place to lower risks. These are set out in more detail in separate guidance.
You should be aware that these requirements are a legal duty. You should follow any rules that are put in place by your employer or any businesses or other organisations you visit. Depending on the setting this must or might include:
physical distancing in the premises
limiting numbers or group sizes
providing contact details to support contact tracing
providing table service
limiting numbers of people at pinch-points, such as toilets
use of face coverings. This is even in indoor premises not normally open to the public or where there is not a general legal requirement to do so
show a COVID Pass to gain entry
What support is available for business?
Financial support up to £120m will be available to businesses affected by these new restrictions to cover certain operating costs This excludes staffing, and will cover the period from 13 December 2021 to 14th February 2022.
Further details including the eligibility checker will be available on the Business Wales website from the 30th December 2021.
Fund details
Funding will be provided via non-domestic rates (NDR) linked grants to non-essential retail, hospitality, leisure and tourism (NERHLT) businesses impacted by the restrictions. Registered businesses in the NERHLT sectors in Wales will be eligible for one-off grants of up to £6,000 per premises.
In addition a discretionary fund will be delivered by local authorities. This is available via a short application process to support other businesses such as sole traders, freelancers and taxi drivers. This is also businesses that employee people but do not pay business rates.
Businesses in the hospitality, leisure and attractions sectors or their supply chains can also apply to the Welsh Government for up to £25k additional grant support via the £25m Economic Resilience Fund (ERF). This element is aimed at businesses in the hospitality, leisure and attractions sectors and their supply chains that are required to close by the regulations or experiencing and expect in the immediate future a greater than 60% impact on turnover compared to corresponding timelines in 2019 and 2020.
The eligibility checker will be available on the Business Wales website on the 30th December 2021. NDR linked grants will start to be issued, and applications made to the discretionary fund, from the week commencing the 10th January 2022. The application window for ERF applications will open the week commencing 17th January 2022. Payments will then start to reach businesses within days.
NDR linked grants
Local authorities will deliver a NDR linked grant fund to NERHLT businesses. There will not be an application process for this element. In order to receive payment businesses must register with their local authority to confirm their details. NDR linked grants will then be paid directly to rate payers as follows:
NERHLT businesses in receipt of Small Business Rate Relief (SBRR) and with a rateable value of £12,000 or less will be eligible for a £2,000 payment.
NERHLT businesses with a rateable value of between £12,001 and £51,000 will be eligible for a £4,000 payment if impacted by the restrictions.
NERHLT businesses with a rateable value of between £51,001 and £500,000 will be eligible for a £6,000 payment if impacted by the restrictions.
Qualifying supply chain businesses will be eligible for support if they have a greater than 40% reduction in turnover during the restriction period.
As a result of the restrictions introduced and in order to focus on delivering this emergency funding, the £35m Business Development and Recovery Fund has been withdrawn. Existing contractual commitments will be honoured.
Discretionary fund
Local authorities will also deliver a discretionary fund via a short application process. Sole traders, freelancers and taxi drivers will be able to apply for £500 and businesses that employee people but do not pay business rates can apply for £2,000.
ERF
The ERF element of the funding will be delivered by the Welsh Government and will provide discretionary grants to hospitality, leisure and attractions sectors and their supply chains via an application process subject to eligibility criteria.
The ERF is aimed at:
Businesses impacted between 13th December 2021 and 14th February 2022 and closed by regulation on 27th December 2021.
Event space and attractions severely impacted between 13th December 2021 and 14th February 2022.
Other businesses with more than a 60% impact on turnover between 13th December 2021 and 14th February 2022 as a direct result of restrictions.
The ERF is open to micro enterprises with between 1 and 9 fulltime equivalent employees (FTE) and SMEs with up to 249 FTE, including charities and social enterprises.
The available grants are as follows:
Full-time Equivalent (FTE)
Business closed by regulations on 27.12.21
Event space and attractions
Other business with restrictions
1-3
£5,000
£3,500
£2,500
4-9
£10,000
£7,000
£5,000
10-49
£15,000
£12,000
£7,500
50-99
£20,000
£15,000
£10,000
100+
£25,000
£20,000
£15,000
Please refer to the Business Wales website for updates on available funding as well as a range of other advice and support around starting or growing a business, including the Economic Futures Fund.
The Development Bank of Wales continues to provide flexible business finance for companies based in Wales ranging from £1,000 up to £10 million.
All retail, leisure and hospitality businesses with a rateable value of £500,000 or below will receive 100% non-domestic rates relief in 2021-22. Read the guidance on the Retail, Leisure and Hospitality Rates Relief scheme.
What support is available if I am not able to work?
People can apply to receive a £750 payment if they have tested positive for coronavirus or they are required to self-isolate by the NHS Wales Test Trace Protect service or the NHS COVID-19 App.
The payment is available to people on a low income who are unable to work from home and would lose income as a result of self-isolating. To be eligible, people must be self-isolating and in receipt of Universal Credit or another specified benefit.
People can also apply to their local authority for a discretionary payment if they are unable to work from home and are losing income and facing financial hardship. Parents and carers of children who have been asked to self-isolate through their education setting are also able to apply.
The Self-Isolation Payment scheme has been live since 16 November 2020. People are able to apply for the payments via their local authority website and claims must be made within 21 days of the period of self-isolation ending. Please see the self-isolation support scheme page to find out more.
People who are self-isolating may also be able to access help from voluntary organisations in their area if they do not have any friends or family who can help them with getting food and other essentials.
Do I have to work from home?
In most circumstances you must work from home where reasonably practicable for you to do so. In line with their duties to take reasonable measures, employers must enable, allow or require their employees to work from home unless there is a clear business or mental health and wellbeing need that would make working from home impractical.
If you are not able to work from home, but are able to work safely in your workplaces, you can do so.
Our guidance for employers, businesses and organisations sets out that employees must not be required or placed under pressure to return to a workplace setting if there is not a clearly demonstrated business need for them to do so. Employers who are considering requiring their staff to return to workplace settings should first assess whether alternative arrangements could meet the majority of the employer’s needs. This should be discussed with staff and/or representatives of staff. Employers should capture the discussions and decisions within the Covid Risk assessment and share this with staff and/or representatives of staff.
Employers must ensure staff are able to work from home reasonably practicable. This may include issuing staff with laptops or mobile phones and facilitating communication with all.
Employers should discuss home working arrangements with the workforce. This may be via their trades unions where appropriate. They should familiarise themselves with guidance from ACAS and the HSE, including on safe home working and management practices for home working.
It is very important that if you have symptoms of coronavirus, that you do not come into work. You should self-isolate and get a PCR test within 24 hours.
My employer will not allow me to work from home, I am worried I will receive a fine, what can I do?
Employers must allow or require their employees to work from home unless there is a clear business or wellbeing need that would make working from home impractical. This is in line with their duties to take reasonable measures.
There could be a genuine business or wellbeing need that means that your job cannot be done from home. Your employer must demonstrate that there are no other reasonably practical alternatives available to them other than requiring you to attend your work place in person.
If you believe that you can work from home, you should discuss this with your employer or trade union in the first instance. If you are unable to find a resolution, you should contact your trade union or seek advice from Acas.
What can I do if I am worried about the safety measures in my workplace?
The coronavirus restrictions impose obligations on people responsible for premises where work takes place to take all reasonable measures to minimise the risk of exposure to coronavirus.
If you cannot work from home, whether that is due to the nature of your job role or because of adverse effects on your mental health and wellbeing and you have concerns that your health and safety is being compromised at work, you should discuss this with your employer or trade union in the first instance. If you are unable to find a resolution, you should contact your trade union or seek advice from Acas.
If you were previously shielding or are worried about being a higher risk of more serious symptoms, you can complete the COVID-19 workforce risk assessment. You should discuss the results with your employer who may take appropriate action. You should also speak to your trade union representative if you are a member of a union.
What are the rules around car sharing?
If you cannot work from home and need to travel to work, you should consider how to do so in the safest way possible. Please refer to the alert level 2 guidance for the public and the Welsh Government’s Technical Advisory Group Report on plastic screens in taxis and private hire vehicles for more information,
Where it cannot be avoided, you should take steps to minimise the risk of coronavirus. For example:
increasing physical distancing as much as possible:
opening windows for the whole journey or at frequent intervals for 10 seconds at a time;
wear a face covering and:
take lateral flow tests twice a week if you don’t have any symptoms.
What is the situation in childcare, playwork and education settings?
While we would expect childcare and playwork and education settings to be operating as close to normal as possible they will need to continue to risk assess their provision and ensure they take account of the guidance for their sectors.
Read further guidance:
Childcare and Playwork COVID-19 Guidance
School operations: coronavirus
Safe operation guidance: post-16 learning providers
Where will I be required to provide proof that I am fully vaccinated or have had a negative lateral-flow tests within the previous 24 hours to gain entry?
Anyone over the age of 18 years old will be required to show the NHS COVID pass to demonstrate they are either fully vaccinated or have had a recent negative Lateral Flow Device test taken within the last 24 hours, to enter the following venues and events:
-
Theatres
-
Cinemas
-
Concert halls
Find out how to get your NHS COVID pass.
Lateral flow device tests can be ordered from the Welsh Government website: Get rapid lateral flow COVID-19 tests if you do not have symptoms.
As attendees, getting both vaccinations (and your booster when invited) if you are able to is extremely important. The vaccine offers significant protections not only for you but also for others. This includes the people you care about.
The use of Covid-Pass and lateral flow tests is one way that risks of infected people entering and spreading coronavirus could be minimised. You should undertake a voluntary at home lateral flow test before you go in order to help protect yourselves, others and for the safe delivery of the event.
Please remember that if you have any symptoms you must not attend the event in the first place. You should self-isolate and arrange a PCR test as soon as possible.
What are the rules for choirs?
The maximum number of people who can take part in choir or band practice and rehearsals is 30 indoors and 500 outdoors. Businesses, employers and other organisations, including activity and event organisers, must undertake a bespoke coronavirus risk assessment of their premises and activities and take reasonable measures to minimise exposure to, and the spread of, coronavirus based on that bespoke risk assessment.
Singing or chanting increases the amount of aerosol expelled into the air from people’s mouths. Reducing the amount of singing or stopping singing can help to reduce the risk of transmission.
If singing or chanting takes place, including as part of a choir, other mitigations should be put in place as part of the covid-specific risk assessment. Practical mitigations could include:
improving ventilation;
moving the activity outdoors;
increasing the space between people or;
having fewer people present.
The requirement to wear face-coverings could be one for the reasonable measures identified as part of your COVID specific risk assessment. This will come down to your assessment of all the risks and the suite of mitigations you can practically put in place.
What are the rules for domestic travel into or out of Wales from or to the rest of the UK?
There are no restrictions in place for travel into or out of Wales as long as you are travelling to or from a country within the UK or wider Common Travel Area.
It is important to understand that the rules here in Wales are slightly different.
It is a legal obligation in Wales to wear a face covering in all indoor public places. This requirement applies to all public transport, taxis and private vehicle hire and includes indoor areas of transport hubs such as bus stations, railway stations, airports and ferry ports.
If travelling by public transport we would encourage you to plan your journey. If you wish to avoid busy periods you can use apps, such as Transport for Wales’ capacity checker, to avoid travelling in busy periods. It is a sensible to avoid travelling to and from areas with a higher incidence rates if you can.
We are not introducing any legal restrictions on travel within the UK at this point. It is our clear advice that people should avoid travelling to areas with high prevalence of coronavirus if they can avoid it. There is an increased risk of contracting COVID-19, even if vaccinated, in those areas so you should avoid travelling to them if possible.
Separate rules apply in Scotland and Northern Ireland, where travel may be restricted to or from different places. You should check the rules before travelling to those countries and Ireland and the Channel Islands as restrictions may be in place.
Do not travel if you have COVID-19 symptoms or are self-isolating. Get a test and follow the guidance.
We would urge anyone planning a break in Wales from another part of the UK to test themselves using the free COVID-19 lateral flow tests, before they travel. Only those who have a negative test result and no symptoms of coronavirus should travel. Everyone coming to Wales from other areas should bring lateral flow testing kits with them to continue regular testing while on holiday.
Lateral flow testing kits are available from local collection points across the UK. More information is available at: Regular rapid lateral flow coronavirus (COVID-19) tests (on www.nhs.uk)
What are the rules for international travel?
Measures to prevent new coronavirus infections being imported, especially new variants, as a result of international travel are important and will remain part of the measures required at alert level 2.
The emergence of the omicron variant is a serious development in the ongoing pandemic and we all need to take steps to keep ourselves safe.
We continue to strongly advise against all but essential international travel.
If you do need to travel overseas, check what you will need to consider before you go, and see guidance on the requirements for arriving in Wales.
Why is the vaccine important?
The vaccines offer safe and effective individual protection from COVID-19. It will also offer greater protection for our loved ones and communities.
By vaccinating everyone in Wales we will:
protect people from COVID-19
enable us to lift restrictions in due course
help us to return to a more normal life
What vaccines are available?
Pfizer-BioNTech
Oxford-AstraZeneca
Moderna
All three vaccines were effective in all groups in the trials after two doses.
Who can have the vaccine?
The NHS has vaccinated people in order of clinical risk, based on age groups from old to young. Some people are more at risk than others from COVID-19 due to poor health. This is why the vaccine programme protects them first.
People with very poor health include:
Chronic heart disease (and vascular disease)
Chronic kidney disease
Chronic liver disease
Chronic neurological disease including epilepsy
Severe and profound learning disability
Diabetes
Solid organ, bone marrow and stem cell transplant recipients
People with specific cancers
Immunosuppression due to disease or treatment
Asplenia and splenic dysfunction
Morbid obesity
Severe mental illness
Young people at risk of Covid-19 may be considered for vaccination but generally children are not badly affected by COVID-19.
The NHS are on track to offer over 90% of the population of Wales their first dose by the end of July.
If you are living in Wales, or a temporary resident, register with your local GP practice. They will send you an invitation for vaccination.
There is a small number of people who cannot have the vaccine, this includes anyone who has ever had:
- a life threatening reaction to a dose of the COVID-19 vaccine or any ingredient in the vaccines
Factors may vary for each vaccine. If you’re not sure if you should get the vaccine, talk to your doctor or nurse. They can help you make an informed choice about vaccination.
How do I get my vaccine?
The NHS will contact you when it is your turn to receive the vaccine, either by telephone or letter.
All health boards are now inviting people aged 17 years and 9 months for vaccination. If you have not received an invitation or think you have been missed please contact your local health board.
Everyone will get two doses of the vaccine. You will have a higher level of protection after the second dose. You will be invited back for your second dose within 12 weeks of the first dose.
You will get a credit card-sized NHS Wales immunisation card when you have your COVID-19 vaccine. The card records information about your vaccine and your appointments, and contains advice on how to report any side effects.
If you can’t attend your appointment, please give as much notice as possible by phoning the booking centre.
If you are unwell or had a positive COVID-19 test in the last 28 days, you should not attend your vaccination appointment and book later.
If you are self-isolating because of travel or you are a contact of suspected or confirmed COVID-19 cases you should not attend.
Your vaccine will not be wasted and another appointment will be made available.
How does the vaccine work?
Vaccines are safe, effective and save lives.
Vaccines teach your immune system how to protect you from diseases. It's safer for your immune system to learn how to protect you from disease through vaccination than attempting to treat infection.
The majority of people in Wales have said they would get a COVID-19 vaccine when it’s available.
The long term response to the pandemic requires a safe and effective vaccine to be available for all who need it. Like all medicines, no vaccine is 100% effective. Some people may still get COVID-19 despite having a vaccination, but this should be less harmful.
You cannot catch COVID-19 from the vaccine. But it is possible to catch COVID-19 and not realise you have the symptoms until after your vaccination. The most important symptoms of COVID-19 are recent onset of any of the following:
a new continuous cough
a high temperature
a loss of, or change in, your normal sense of taste or smell
If you have any of these symptoms, stay at home and arrange to have a test by phoning 119 (calls are free). Some health boards test for a wider range of symptoms. Please check your local health board website for any extra symptoms that would make you eligible for a test in your area. If you need more information on symptoms visit: 111.wales.nhs.uk
Pregnancy
Vaccination is being offered to pregnant women at the same time as the rest of the population, based on age and clinical risk.
PHW and the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists have produced a pregnancy COVID-19 vaccine decision making tool.
You can talk to your vaccinator or a healthcare professional about the jab if you have any concerns.
Breastfeeding
The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) says there is no known risk in giving the COVID-19 vaccines to breastfeeding women.
If you are eligible and have been offered a COVID-19 vaccine while you are breast-feeding, you should discuss the benefits and risks of having the vaccine with your healthcare professional.
Read the latest information on COVID-19 vaccination on Public Health Wales.
Side effects
Like all medicines, vaccines can cause side effects. Most of these are mild and short-term, and not everyone gets them.
Very rare allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) can happen after vaccines or medicines. Health professionals watch out for the early signs and respond fast.
You will be asked if you have ever had any serious allergic reactions before you are offered vaccination.
Very rare blood-clotting problem affecting a small number of people has been reported who have had the AstraZeneca (AZ) vaccine. The problem can also happen in people who have not been vaccinated and it’s not clear why it affects some people. This is being carefully reviewed by medical authorities. The JCVI advises as a precaution that it’s preferable for people under the age of 40 with no underlying health conditions to be offered an alternative vaccine to AstraZeneca.
Here is a link to patient information/COVID-19 vaccination and blood clotting) and (link to blood-clotting leaflet resource).
If you experience side effects:
Vaccines are very safe. As with all medicines, side effects can occur after getting a vaccine. These are usually very minor and of short duration, such as a sore arm or a mild fever. More serious side effects are possible, but very rare. Tests have been carried out in thousands of adults to ensure the vaccine is safe.
You can report any suspected side effects using the Yellow Card safety scheme: https://coronavirus-yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/
Passing Covid-19 on?
If you’ve had the vaccine but have symptoms or have been told to self-isolate you must still self-isolate.
The vaccine is safe and effective and will reduce your chance of becoming very ill from the virus.
Like all medicines, no vaccine is 100% effective. There is still a small chance you could catch COVID-19 even if you’ve had the vaccine. It will also take a few weeks for your body to build up protection from the vaccine.
Even if you’re vaccinated, you may still be able to pass the virus on to others who have not yet been vaccinated.
It is important that you continue to follow the rules to keep yourself and others safe.
Please continue to:
keep social contacts to a small
keep social distancing
wash your hands
wear your face covering where required
keep rooms ventilated
take a test and self-isolate if you have COVID-19 symptoms
self-isolate if you have been identified as a contact by Test, Trace, Protect