Coping With Self-Isolation You Have Symptoms

With strict orders to stay inside for 14 days if you get a dry persistent cough and a fever, physician Dr Christian Jessen explains what to eat, drink, take and do to ensure you – and everyone else – stays well

- Dr Christian Jessen

For most of us, the coronavirus won’t cause major health issues. However, it is still worrying for the elderly and those with underlying health conditions, and we all need to help keep them safe.

While we’re all self-isolating, if you have a temperature over 37.8°C, or a new persistent dry cough, it’s critical you quarantine yourself for 14 days – not because you’re likely to be horribly ill, but to protect those who could be if you pass the germ on. Most people don’t have a very accurate thermometer at home, so if you have a fever you’ll feel hot to the touch as well as shivery, both hot and cold, achy and clammy.

EAT WELL & BE ACTIVE

In terms of boosting your immunity, you should eat well, rest and try to avoid stress. Aim to eat the rainbow – include different coloured fruit and vegetables. That includes frozen berries, peas and spinach, or tinned fruit, but aim for as much variety and colour as you can to ensure you get lots of vitamins, and drink lots of water. Exercise is good for you, but don’t push yourself if you’re ill. When you start to feel better but you still need to be in isolation, try some exercise apps, or stop using your exercise bike as a clothes horse! Failing that, there’s always housework – that’s good exercise too!

STAY HYDRATED