NHS Updates Covid Symptoms List Following Axe Of Free Testing

The NHS has updated its list of covid symptoms following the axing of free lateral flow tests earlier this month.

Ordering free antigen tests stopped for most people from 1st April, with only some now able to access them without charge.

Following the change, the NHS has updated its list of symptoms from three to nine.

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Previously, these were a fever, a new, continuous cough and a loss or change to sense of smell or taste.

They've now been extended to include: shortness of breath; feeling tired or exhausted; an aching body; a headache; a sore throat; a blocked or runny nose; loss of appetite; diarrhoea and feeling sick or being sick.

It's thought the new symptoms have been added in light of the varying symptoms associated with different variants of the virus, such as delta and omicron.

Those who suffer symptoms are advised to stay at home and avoid contact with others until they feel well enough or no longer have a high temperature.

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As of Friday, free lateral flow tests will be available for the following groups of people: Those who are eligible for community covid treatments because they are at higher risk of getting seriously ill from the virus. People in this group will be contacted directly and sent lateral flow tests; those working in high risk settings - including, staff in adult social care services, residents in care homes and supported living services; NHS workers; those working and living in hospices and those working and living in prisons and places of detention.

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The government says the vaccine rollout, as well as access to medication and natural immunity has given the population a much stronger protection against covid.

People will be able to pay for lateral flow tests either online or in local pharmacies. While the cost varies by retailer, Boots is selling two tests for £3.95, or a pack of four for £7.90.