Guernsey Press

Reminder as GPs see more people with Covid-19 associated symptoms

CONCERN has been expressed that more people are turning up at GPs with symptoms that could be associated with Covid-19.

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Director of Public Health Dr Nicola Brink. (28473682)

The island has had no known cases in 76 days.

'I am concerned that there are reports from Primary Care that GPs are noticing more patients with symptoms that could be associated with Covid-19. This is a change from previous observations,' said Director of Public Health Dr Nicola Brink.

'All have tested Covid-19 negative so far but we can’t be complacent.

'It is important to stress that these symptoms could be associated with many other viral conditions and we still have no known positive cases on island. However, I would urge islanders to be vigilant and to arrange for a Covid-19 swab if they have any of the symptoms. It is also essential that they self-isolate at home until they receive a negative Covid-19 result.'

The initial case definition adopted by the Bailiwick used the symptoms as defined by Public Health England. These focussed on the presence of fever, cough or shortness of breath.

These were updated in April and are now:

Fever (rigors, chills, can’t get warm, high temperature.)

  • Muscle ache (fatigue, exhaustion)

  • Headache (sinus pain, pain around eyes)

  • Loss of smell/taste Continuous new cough

  • Sore throat

  • Shortness of breath, chest tightness

  • Over 80s and 90s – loose stool, mild fever, not themselves with a cough presenting later

Anyone with symptoms, however mild, should call the clinical helpline on 756938 or 756969 to arrange for testing.