I have received a letter telling me I must ‘shield’ myself for 12 weeks? What does this mean?

Last week the NHS wrote to people considered to be at the highest clinical risk from Coronavirus (COVID-19), telling them they should stay at home at all times and avoid all face-to-face contact for a period of at least 12 weeks. This is so that we can reduce the risk of you becoming seriously unwell. It may feel overwhelming but it is there to protect you.

People who have received letters include those who have had an organ transplant, some cancer patients who are having chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or other treatments that weaken their immune system - such as bone marrow or stem cell treatments.

It also includes people with cystic fibrosis, severe asthma and severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD2). Women who are pregnant and have a heart condition are included, as are those with conditions such as sickle cell anaemia.

People that live with you can help by keeping to a minimum the time spent in shared spaces (e.g. kitchen, bathroom and sitting areas) and keeping shared spaces well ventilated, as well as keeping at least three steps away.

If possible, use a separate bathroom, or clean the bathroom thoroughly after use and use a separate towel. These are infection control measures aimed at reducing the chance of you catching the virus from others.

Shielding is hard work and you need to weigh up how you can stay connected with others, but still protect yourself while staying at home. You can still go out into your garden or private space, as long as you can keep your distance from other people.

Your GP is aware that you have been advised to shield. If you have questions or are concerned, then telephone your doctor’s surgery. If you live alone and need help, there is help available to get shopping or medication delivered to you. If you can (or someone can on your behalf) you should register with the government’s website: https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus-extremely-vulnerable.

My loved one is in a care home and I am worried about their health - I haven't been able to see them

This is a very difficult time for many people and especially for those whose loved ones live apart from them in a residential or nursing home.

Everyone who is working in the care sector is doing their best to keep everyone safe. Every care home will have strict infection control processes in place and care staff are now able to get tested if they have symptoms of the virus.

As well as frequent telephone calls, many homes are finding creative ways to keep families and friends in touch, such as video calling, where your loved ones can see your face while you talk.

This is particularly good to help people remember faces. You can also keep in touch by sending cards or other messages to let them know you are thinking of them.

You should talk to the manager of the home if you are concerned about someone’s health, or what will happen if they become ill.

The home will be able to tell you how they are keeping residents safe and how they would deal with an outbreak of illness.

Although these are unusual times, care homes and others are always prepared for these situations.