Regular testing and self-isolation

Why is regular testing important?

About 1 in 3 people with COVID-19 do not have symptoms but can still infect others. Therefore, everyone is advised to get tested regularly.  

It is an incredibly important and effective way of slowing the spread of COVID-19.

Even if you’re vaccinated, there’s still a chance you can pass COVID-19 on, so you should keep getting tested regularly.

Anyone who does not have symptoms can get regular rapid lateral flow tests to check for COVID-19. Find out where to get a lateral flow test on the NHS website

If you have symptoms of COVID-19, you need a different test called a PCR test. Get a PCR test if you have symptoms of COVID-19 on GOV.UK

Why is self-isolation important?

If you have been in close contact with someone who has the virus it could take up to 10 days for your own symptoms to appear and you could unknowingly pass the virus onto other people, including those who are vulnerable to very serious illness.

By self-isolating, you are protecting your friends, family and your community and helping to stop the virus spreading.

You must not leave your home if you’re self-isolating.

Help if you have to self-isolate

We know that it’s not easy to self isolate but we are here to help.

• Tel: 01235 422600 if you need support (our office hours are 8.30am-5pm Monday to Thursday, 8.30am-4.30pm on Fridays)
• Email:  communitysupport@southandvale.gov.uk
• Complete our online form and the team will get in touch with you

See the links below for more information about self-isolation guidance, advice and financial or practical support:

• The Community Hub and NHS responders can help with shopping and medication
• You may be eligible for financial support if you are told to self-isolate
• Guidance for carers who are told to self-isolate

More information on the NHS website:

• When to self-isolate and what to do
• What to do when you are told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace or the NHS Covid-19 app
• How long to self-isolate
• How to avoid spreading coronavirus to people you live with

More information on the government website:

• If you have symptoms and have not had a test, stay at home and get a PCR test to check if you have COVID-19 on GOV.UK
• Guidance for pet owners who are told to self-isolate

If you are a household with children and you need to self-isolate

Schools and colleges have plans in place to continue the education of children and young people required to self-isolate. Additional resources and information for parents and carers on schools and education during the pandemic can be found on Oxfordshire County Council’s website.

If your child is eligible for free school meals and is required to stay at home to self-isolate, you are entitled to a food parcel or shopping vouchers. Contact your child’s school or college for further information.