COVID-19

With the unprecedented effect coronavirus (COVID-19) is having on the world, our thoughts are with all those affected. We take a look at how to work from home, what tools are available to you and how to look after your electric car while it’s not being used.

- Jonathan Musk

Spotting the symptoms

The World Health Organisation (WHO) says symptoms of COVID-19 more commonly include fever, tiredness and a dry cough. Symptoms that not everyone gets include shortness of breath, aches and pains, sore throat and there are some reports of diarrhoea, nausea and a runny nose. Sneezing is not recognised as a symptom, however. There are accounts of symptoms including the loss of smell and taste too.

Those experiencing mild symptoms are asked to self-isolate and contact their medical provider. Those with fever, a cough or difficulty breathing are encouraged to contact their doctor and seek medical attention, for example by going online to NHS or calling 111 – the latter only if you cannot get help online.

What is the government doing?

Aside from the widespread lockdown currently in force, the government has rolled out a series of measures to help individuals and businesses survive the current financial uncertainty.

A financial crisis has been exacerbated by the government’s own response to the virus and its moves to stem the spread, and it has therefore implemented measures including unlimited loans and guarantees to support firms and help them manage cashflows. Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak (pictured), announced an initial £330bn of guarantees – equivalent to 15% of UK GDP.

He said, “any business who needs access to cash to pay their rent, their salaries, suppliers or purchase stock will be able to access a government-backed loan or credit on attractive terms”.