COVID-19
COVID-19 is an illness caused by a coronavirus. Most people feel better within a few weeks, and looking after yourself at home and avoiding passing it on both help. Vaccines are offered to those at higher risk.
- Updated August 2026
- Clinical review pending
- 1 source
At a glance
- COVID-19 is caused by a coronavirus and ranges from mild to serious.
- If you feel unwell, rest and try to avoid close contact with others.
- Vaccines are offered to people at higher risk.
On this page (5 sections)
Overview
COVID-19 is an illness caused by a coronavirus. For many people it is mild, but it can be more serious for some, and symptoms can vary from person to person [1].
Symptoms
Symptoms can include a high temperature, a new cough, a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste, a sore throat, a blocked or runny nose, tiredness, and body aches [1].
What to do
Most people can recover at home by resting, drinking fluids and taking paracetamol if needed. If you have symptoms and feel unwell, it is advisable to stay at home and avoid close contact with others where you can, to help stop it spreading [1].
Who is more at risk, and vaccination
COVID-19 can be more serious for older people and those with certain health conditions. Vaccines are offered to people at higher risk to reduce the chance of becoming seriously unwell [1].
When to get help
Use NHS 111 online or call 111 if you are worried about your symptoms. Call 999 if you are struggling to breathe, have chest pain, or feel very unwell [1].
Sources
- NHS. COVID-19 (opens in new tab) Accessed 12 August 2026.
About this page
- Written by
- Consumer Health editorial team
- Medical review
- Pending — this page has not yet been reviewed by a named clinician. Read our medical review policy.
- Last updated
- August 2026
- Next review due
- August 2027
Important: This information is for general guidance only and does not replace professional medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional — such as your GP or pharmacist — for advice about your individual circumstances, and do not start, stop or change any prescribed treatment based only on this page. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 999. Consumer Health is an independent health-information resource and is not the NHS or a government body.
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