What’s new when it comes to COVID-19?
We take a look at some of the key recent announcements that you should be aware of.
We take a look at some of the key recent announcements that you should be aware of.
Testing being extended
The Government announced this week that antibody tests will be extended for health and care staff, patients and care home residents from next week. Not only will this allow individuals to confirm whether they have had COVID-19, but it will also give valuable information about how the virus has spread in different parts of the country.
Anyone in the UK with COVID-19 symptoms can now access to the PCR swab tests (which show whether an individual currently has COVID-19). Individuals can visit www.nhs.uk/coronavirus to book their test. Symptomatic members of the public can also call 119 to arrange testing.
Support for those with diabetes
NHS England and NHS Improvement published a study this week that shows that people living with type 1 diabetes are at three and a half times the risk, and people living with type 2 are at double the risk of dying in hospital with COVID-19, compared to people without diabetes.
In response, NHS England and NHS Improvement announced the expansion of support to people with diabetes to include a dedicated helpline to advise those who need help with insulin, established with Diabetes UK and others. Diabetes patients will also have access to additional online advice to help them to manage their condition better.
