For casual contacts of people with COVID-19
If you have been in the same place as someone with COVID-19, Public Health may tell you that you are a casual contact.
- A casual contact is a person who may have been in contact with someone with COVID-19, but not exposed long enough to be at risk i.e. not within 2 metres of a case or more than 15 minutes.
- If you are a casual contact, the risk of getting COVID-19 is low, but you should still watch for symptoms.
- Casual contacts may be asked to get a COVID-19 test.
- Practise good hygiene and wear a face cover when out in public.
- Record your movements, where you have been and who you have seen. Write down a list or use the COVID-19 tracer app.
Monitor your health closely until 14 days after you were last with the infected person.
Watch for these symptoms:
- New or worsening cough
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Temporary loss of smell
- Difficulty breathing
- Runny nose.
If you develop symptoms or become unwell, seek medical help but phone ahead first. You can also free phone Healthline on 0800 358 5453, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Interpreters are available.
- Wear a mask or face cover when you are in public, especially if you cannot maintain social distancing.
- Cough or sneeze into your elbow or cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze; throw used tissues into a lined rubbish bin, and immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, making sure you dry them thoroughly.
- You can also use a hand sanitiser if there is no soap and water available.
- Throughout the day, wash and dry your hands often and thoroughly.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Clean high-touch surfaces like kitchen benches and door handles regularly.
Last updated 21.9.2020