I’ve been exposed to someone with coronavirus – can I be tested? Dr Hilary answers your coronavirus questions
IT is vital we follow the Government’s advice to help reduce the spread of coronavirus.
But many people are confused about what to do during this time of crisis. We have teamed up with TV’s Dr Hilary Jones, who is on hand to answer your questions. Today he tells how to keep safe and when you should self-isolate.
Read our coronavirus live blog for the latest news & updates
Q. My daughter aged 14 had Strep throat a month ago. She has had a dry, continuous cough for two weeks, which isn’t clearing. Could it be coronavirus and what should I do?
A. It is possible that your daughter has coronavirus as a new, dry persistent cough is a typical symptom. It may be the aftermath of her throat infection but she should self-isolate with the rest of the family for 14 days just to be on the safe side.
Q. I work in a care home and we have been exposed to someone testing positive for the virus. I feel unwell so can I be tested?
A. Covid-19 tests are in short supply. The guidance is for you to stay home and self-isolate with your family for 14 days.
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Q. How would being on lifelong warfarin affect me if I had coronavirus?
A. Warfarin stops your blood from forming clots. Taking it in no way makes you more prone to developing symptoms of coronavirus. It could work in your favour because one of the consequences of chest infection with this virus can be the formation of tiny clots in the lungs.
Q. I’ve had an open, non-healing wound for ten years that has required multiple surgeries. Is it an underlying health problem?
A. The coronavirus spreads through droplets in the air or from transmission from the hands to the face. The virus does not penetrate healthy skin but can be more difficult to wash away from open wounds. Provided you make sure your open wound is thoroughly cleaned and sterilised, you should be at no more risk than anyone else.
Read ALL Dr Hilary’s coronavirus advice here
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Q. If you have self-isolated for two weeks due to a cough and come out of self-isolation, then get another sore throat, do you have to self-isolate again?
A. If you only have a sore throat now you do not need to self-isolate again. If you get a dry, persistent cough again, the advice would be to start all over again and self-isolate.
Q. Is any treatment having an effect on the virus?
A. The main treatment for severe symptoms is to support their breathing and vital functions. The UK is urgently conducting trials into repurposed antivirals a strong steroid and an antimalarial drug.
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Q. My wife has an autoimmune disease. Does this make her more susceptible?
A. Provided she’s not taking steroids such as prednisolone or methotrexate she can consider herself at low risk. She is also low risk if she is only taking a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory or sulfasalazine
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