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How do I self-isolate?

How to look after yourself and others while you self-isolate

There are a few important things you should do whilst self-isolating:

You may also want to look at our frequently asked questions


1) Obey hygiene rules

  • Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth if your hands are not clean
  • Wash your hands regularly for at least 20 seconds with soap (use hand sanitiser gel if soap and water are not available)
  • If you cough or sneeze, always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands). Put used tissues in the bin straight away and wash your hands afterwards
  • Put the toilet seat lid down, and then flush toilets twice
  • Keep your study bedroom ventilated by opening a window when you are in your room

What if I am sharing a kitchen or bathroom?


2) Stay away from other people

If you have to self-isolate, you should stay away from other people you live with as much as possible.

  • Remain in your study bedroom as much as possible with the door closed to minimise contact with others (particularly important if you have symptoms)
  • Do not invite any visitors to your residence or household, including friends and family. The only exception is for students with disabilities who have University approved carers coming in to provide essential care.

We are here to support you during your self-isolation period. On campus contact your Residential Life Tutor. Off campus contact Wellbeing Support Services


3) Stay inside

  • Do not go out to get food and medicine. Order supplies online or by phone, or ask someone to bring it to your home. Find out more about food deliveries at Warwick.
  • Do not leave your residence or household to go to your academic department or any other public places
  • Do not use public transport, taxis or private hire vehicles
  • Do not go outside to exercise. You can do this in your study bedroom. See fitness tips from Warwick Sport.
  • Contact your Residential Life Tutor if you need advice on this if you’re on campus, or the Wellbeing Support Team if you are off campus.

What if I have to leave my bedroom?



4) Seek emergency help

You should seek medical advice if your symptoms (or the symptoms of any of your kitchen group or household) get worse.

Use the NHS 111 Coronavirus (Covid-19) service for medical non-emergencies:

  • You feel you cannot cope with your symptoms at home
  • You feel breathless and it's getting worse
  • Your symptoms get worse and you're not sure what to do
  • Your symptoms do not get better after 10 days

Only call NHS 111 if you cannot get the help online.

For medical emergencies, including if you or a member of your household are:

  • struggling to breathe
  • coughing up blood
  • have blue lips or a blue face
  • feel cold and sweaty, with pale or blotchy skin
  • have a rash that does not fade when you roll a glass over it
  • collapse or faint
  • become confused or very drowsy
  • have stopped peeing or are peeing much less than usual

Source: these symptoms are taken from the NHS website).

If you need an ambulance

If you are on campus and have already called 999, please call Campus Security so they can escort the emergency vehicle to you. They can also give first aid support.

You can also see other emergency contact details at Warwick.