If you are self-isolating because of coronavirus (COVID-19), there are things you can do to reduce the chances of spreading any infection to the people you live with.
Try to stay away from people you live with
If you have symptoms, you should stay away from other people you live with as much as possible.
stay on your own in one room as much as possible and keep the door closed
avoid using shared spaces (such as the kitchen) at the same time as other people – eat your meals in your room
use a separate bathroom - otherwise, use the bathroom after everyone else and clean it each time you use it, for example, by wiping the surfaces you've touched
How to reduce the spread of infection in your home
Do
wash your hands with soap and water often, for at least 20 seconds
use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available
cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when you cough or sneeze
put used tissues in the bin immediately and wash your hands afterwards
clean objects and surfaces you touch often (such as door handles, kettles and phones) using your regular cleaning products
consider wearing a face covering when in shared spaces
keep windows open in the room you're staying in and shared spaces as much as possible
Don’t
do not share towels, including hand towels and tea towels
If you live with someone at higher risk from COVID-19
It's especially important to try to avoid spreading the infection to anyone who's at higher risk from COVID-19 (such as people who are 70 or over, pregnant or have a weakened immune system).
If you live with someone at higher risk, try to arrange for them to stay with friends or family while you're self-isolating.
If you have to stay at home together, try to keep 2 metres (3 steps) away from each other. If possible, try not to share a bed.
Information:
More information about self-isolation
Read the full guidance about self-isolation on GOV.UK.
More in Self-isolation and treating symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19)
When to self-isolate and what to do
How long to self-isolate
How to look after yourself at home if you have COVID-19
How to avoid spreading COVID-19 to people you live with
Help and financial support while you're self-isolating
If you're told to self-isolate by NHS Test and Trace or the NHS COVID-19 app
Before putting on a face mask, clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.Cover your mouth and nose with mask and make sure there are no gaps between your face and the mask.Avoid touching the mask while using it; if you do, clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.Replace the mask with a new one as soon as it is damp and do not re-use single-use masks.To remove the mask: remove it from behind (do not touch the front of the mask); discard immediately in a closed bin; clean hands with alcohol-based hand rub or soap and water.
