COVID-19 – know the symptoms and what to do if you develop them

NHS Western Isles is reminding everyone across our communities that they should self-isolate and arrange a PCR laboratory test through the NHS if they develop unexplained new symptoms, regardless of how mild. 

Lateral Flow Device (LFD) self- tests are for regular asymptomatic testing. It is important that you do not rely on LFDs if you develop symptoms. If you develop symptoms, you should immediately self-isolate (do not attend work, go shopping or visit friends) and arrange a PCR test – even if you test LFD negative.  

You can arrange a test in the Western Isles by calling 01851 601151 or emailing wi.covid19queries@nhs.scot 

Symptoms to be aware of… 

The vast majority of us are well aware of the widely publicised three main symptoms of COVID-19 – a high temperature, persistent cough and loss of or change in taste or sense of smell. 

However, it has become clear that there is more to COVID than cough and fever, and what you may not know is that there are also different common symptoms for those who contract COVID-19 after being vaccinated.  

Thanks to the millions of daily health reports logged by more than four million contributors to the ZOE COVID Symptom Study, it has emerged that there are more than 20 different symptoms of the disease in total, seven of which have been identified as ‘key symptoms’.  

Of course, having one or more of these symptoms does not mean you definitely have COVID-19, as the symptoms can also occur with many other illnesses. However, they are all symptoms that you should be aware of. If in doubt, please self-isolate and arrange a PCR test. 

The key symptoms to be vigilant for are as follows: 

1. A new cough 
2. A fever (including high temperature or chills/shivers) 
3. Loss of smell 
4. Unexplained fatigue 
5. Sore throat 
6. Unexplained headache  
7. Diarrhoea 

What if you’ve been vaccinated? 

The ZOE COVID Symptom Study has gathered data on symptoms experienced by those who have had both doses of the COVID vaccine and later contracted COVID-19. The good news is that symptoms reported were fewer and milder, and people got better more quickly.  

The common symptoms reported for those who had been double vaccinated are as follows: 

1. Headache 
2. Runny nose 
3. Sneezing 
4. Sore throat 
5. Loss of smell 

Please, if you experience any of the symptoms described above, self-isolate and seek a test by calling 01851 601151 or emailing: wi.covid19queries@nhs.scot