The new COVID-19 variant (known as Delta) spreads more easily than the other variants that were previously most common. To help stop the spread, you should:

• Get both doses of the vaccine when you are offered it, and encourage others to do so as well

• Participate in surge testing in your local area, whether you are vaccinated or not

• Self-isolate immediately if you have any symptoms of COVID-19 (a high temperature, a new, continuous cough or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste) or if you’ve tested positive for COVID-19

In the areas listed above, you should also take particular caution when meeting anyone outside your household or support bubble. Wherever possible, you should try to:

• Meet outside rather than inside where possible

• Keep 2 metres apart from people that you do not live with (unless you have formed a support bubble with them), this includes friends and family you don’t live with

• Minimise travel in and out of affected areas

You should also:

• Get tested twice a week for free and isolate if you are positive

• Continue to work from home if you can

Refer to local health advice for your area (linked above)

You should get tested for COVID-19. This includes:

• Arranging to have a PCR test if you have symptoms of COVID-19

• Getting regular rapid lateral flow tests if you do not have symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19)

• Arranging a testing or managed quarantine package if you plan to travel overseas.

You should self-isolate immediately if you have flu like symptomsor a positive test result for COVID-19. There is financial support available for citizens only. Residents may be allowed debt and payment relief.