Disease outbreak
Infectious diseases can cause significant health issues due to the large number of people that could be affected in a short space of time, including those with the possibility of severe symptoms.
Scenarios could range from significant outbreaks which spread slowly and can be more easily contained (e.g. in a hospital, care home or school) or a pandemic, such as Covid-19, which could cause large numbers of fatalities and put the population at risk.
How you could be affected
A pandemic occurs when a new virus / strain emerges and could:
- infect people rapidly
- spread from person to person
- cause illness in a high proportion of the people infected
- spread widely because most people will have little or no immunity to the new virus / strain
- cause significant numbers of deaths
- cause disruption to all sectors of society (schools, healthcare and businesses)
What you should do
- Get all vaccinations you're eligible for (flu, COVID etc.)
- Keep cold and flu medications at home
- Call 111 if you think you have been infected
- Practice good handwashing and clean surfaces frequently
- Have a plan for getting help if you are too ill to leave your home (pharmacy delivery service, online food shopping etc.)
- Plan childcare in case schools close
- If you are not vaccinated, try to get an appointment
- Follow local health instructions
- Stay home if you are infected to stop the spread
- Keep your environment clean
- Help your neighbours or family if you can
- Work from home if possible
- Keep up with your vaccines
- Take it slow when returning to normal activities
- Wear a face mask if you are vulnerable
- Continue good hygiene
- Use the NHS app to order prescriptions and put in place pharmacy delivery
Further advice and information
NHS 111 – Get help for your symptoms (24/7 NHS non-emergency service)
NHS 111 – British Sign Language (BSL) Service
Individuals with hearing loss can also call 18001 111 on a text phone.