Coronavirus (2019-nCoV)
Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) is a new respiratory illness that has not previously been seen in humans.
The risk of getting the illness in the UK is low.
Advice to travellers returning from Wuhan, China
If you have returned from Wuhan in the last 14 days:
- stay indoors and avoid contact with other people
- call NHS 111 to tell them of your recent travel to the city
What this means in practice
This means staying at home for 14 days after arriving from Wuhan and not going to work, school or public areas.
Try to avoid having visitors to your home, but it's OK for friends, family or delivery drivers to drop off food.
While the risk to the UK population remains low, these steps are recommended to limit the potential spread of infection.
Transport
Do not use public transport or taxis until 14 days after your return from Wuhan.
Getting food and medicine
Stay at home for 14 days after arriving from Wuhan, and avoid public places. Ask a friend, family member or delivery services to carry out errands on your behalf.
Taking children to school
Stay at home for 14 days after arriving from Wuhan, and avoid public places. Ask a friend or family member to take your children to school.
If you develop symptoms
If you develop a high temperature, cough, runny nose, sore throat or difficulty breathing, continue to follow this advice. Do not leave your home call 111 for advice
What is the risk of catching coronavirus in the UK?
If there is a case in the UK, health professionals will aim to contact anyone who has been in close contact with the infected person.
If you have not been contacted, be reassured you are extremely unlikely to catch coronavirus.
Symptoms of coronavirus
Symptoms usually include:
- feeling tired
- difficulty breathing
- a high temperature
- a cough
How is coronavirus spread between people?
Because it's a new illness, we do not know exactly how coronavirus spreads from person to person, but similar viruses spread by cough droplets.
Treatment for coronavirus
There is no specific treatment for coronavirus. Treatment aims to relieve the symptoms.
Further information
GOV.UK has further information on coronavirus and the situation in the UK, and advice on travel to China.
