If you are unwell

If you have cold, flu or COVID-19 symptoms you should take a test.

Check out this handy tips on taking a rapid antigen test and what to do if you test positive.

Only people who test positive for COVID-19 will be required to isolate for seven days.

Household contacts are recommended to take a RAT test every day for five days. So long as they test negative, they will be able to go about daily life as normal.

If you test positive for COVID-19

If you get a positive result on your rapid antigen test (RAT) you need to record it at My Covid Record or by phoning 0800 222 478.

How to get a rapid antigen test 

Rapid antigen tests (RATs) are now the main way of finding out if you have COVID-19. They are free and can be collected at a number of sites around the region.

*You no longer need to have COVID-19 symptoms or be a household contact to be eligible for free RATs. Make sure you order them online first, only order what you need, and remember that our large community testing centres have the most stock on site.*

If have symptoms then you should use a RAT to see if you have COVID-19. 

There are usuallly five tests in each box and you will receive instructions on when you should take a test. It takes only 20 minutes to get your result.

Each brand is slightly different so make sure to look at the instructions in the pack.

If you get a positive result on your rapid antigen test (RAT) you need to record it at My Covid Record or by phoning 0800 222 478.

Check out these step by step instructions for reporting the result online.

Download these tips on what else to do if you test positive.

Create an isolation timeline for your household - this will let you know who needs to isolate, the dates they need a test, and when they can leave isolation. It will also give you self-isolation dates for those in your house who have COVID-19.

Depending on your situation, you may receive a call from your doctor or a health professional to find out how you are feeling and what you need.

If at any time you have difficulty breathing, feel very unwell or unsafe, call 111 immediately.

Managing symptoms and when to get help

If you test positive for COVID-19 you will have to isolate at home. You may feel unwell. Many of the symptoms are similar to a cold or flu.

Here are some tips on how you can manage those symptoms so you can recover as quickly and comfortably as possible.

Remember, if at any time you or a family member find it hard to breathe, become very unwell or feel unsafe, immediately call 111.