UK officially adds loss of smell and taste to Covid-19 symptom list

The UK Government have officially added a loss of smell or taste to the growing list of Covid-19 symptoms that people should look out for and self-isolate with.

Until now, only a fever and cough were triggers for people to shut themselves away in self-isolation in case they had and could spread the infection.

But ear, nose and throat doctors had been warning for weeks that more symptoms should be included. They have been telling the government to update the advice.

If you or someone you live with have symptoms of coronavirus, including a recent loss of smell or taste, you should self-isolate for a minimum of 7 days. People in your household should also self-isolate for a minimum of 14 days.

Cough and loss of smell or taste can persist after seven days. You do not need to keep self-isolating after seven days, unless you have a high temperature or are unwell, scientists say.

The World Health Organisation are already citing these as key symptoms, alongside a list of other possible symptoms including:

aches and pains
sore throat
diarrhoea
conjunctivitis (red eye)
headache
loss of taste or smell
a rash on skin, or discolouration of fingers or toes

Researchers at Kings College London have gathered and identified symptom information from over 1.5m people in the UK who believe they might have had coronavirus.

They say there are even more symptoms – such as tiredness and stomach pain or diarrhoea – that could be included as possible coronavirus symptoms.

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