Do we need to isolate?

[totaldisaster12345]

If we have been in touch with someone who has slight fever / maybe cough or sore throat - do we need to isolate? They have ordered a test but may not get results till 2-3 days. What should we do till then? Isolate or wait for their test results? We have no symptoms.

I wouldn't isolate unless you live in the same house as the person.

You don't have to, but I would

No we don't. We stayed one night with them over the weekend though. Who knows maybe they just have a flu but can't find out until a test result.

Meant no we don't live with them

Seriously?

No, you don't need to isolate because you've been around someone who has the symptoms of a cold.

It seems a good proportion of people are actively looking for reasons to shut themselves away.

My colleague had a test a while back. I carried on working as we had previously spent time together etc. However we did amend plans we had for the coming weekend which included meeting up with family (back before the six only rule). When I received notification it was negative we carried on as normal and were actually able to resume plans.

If you can change your plans to reduce contact with others then I would but if you can't then you dont have to isolate according to the rules.

@lughnasadh are you ok? Do you really lack manners like above while talking in person.
Why would I look for ways to shut myself and my family away? I just want to do the right thing. Is it so wrong to ask a question.

@DeathMetalMum thank you! That's the sort of advice I was after. I will avoid seeing people if I can until they get a test result.

You will presumably have been in close contact over the weekend but you do not have to isolate (because you don't yet know if you have been in contact with someone with Covid-19). IF they test positive, then you will have to. However, depending on your circumstances, if you wfh for example, you could choose to isolate just to be on the safe side until you know otherwise.

No you don't 'have to' isolate unless contacted by NHS track and trace. If the person receives a positive result, then you 'should' isolate as you know you've been in contact. Before they get the result, no you don't have to as its still far more likely not to be covid. You shouldn't be having close contact with anyone outside of your household or bubble anyway but probably think twice about visiting anyone who is vulnerable as they would be equally vulnerable to covid/flu/cold.