COVID-19: symptoms, reducing spread and dental appointments

This article was originally published in February 2020 and updated on 18 September 2026. The advice below applies to England; follow the linked NHS guidance for current recommendations.

COVID-19 can cause a cough, high temperature, tiredness, sore throat, breathlessness or a change in smell or taste. These symptoms overlap with other respiratory infections, so symptoms alone cannot confirm the cause.

Reducing the risk of infection

The virus spreads through the air when an infected person breathes, speaks or coughs. Close contact and crowded indoor spaces increase the risk. Someone can pass it on without symptoms, including after vaccination.

Fresh air, meeting outdoors where possible and avoiding close contact with people who are unwell help reduce exposure. Wash your hands regularly and cover coughs and sneezes. A well-fitting face covering can help reduce spread when close contact cannot be avoided, particularly around people at higher risk.

Vaccines help protect against serious illness, although they cannot prevent every infection. Eligibility changes, so check current NHS advice rather than relying on the arrangements that applied during the early pandemic. The NHS prevention guide explains practical precautions.

If you feel unwell or test positive

Try to stay at home and avoid contact with others if you have a high temperature or do not feel well enough for normal activities. Take particular care around people whose health makes them more vulnerable.

Most people do not need a COVID-19 test. If you are eligible for treatment because you are at higher risk of serious illness, follow your testing instructions promptly when symptoms start. After a positive test, contact your GP, specialist team or NHS 111 promptly: treatment needs to start early.

Advice after a positive result depends on age and circumstances. Follow the NHS symptoms and positive-test guidance, and the separate advice on COVID-19 treatments if you may be eligible.

What about a dental appointment?

If you have respiratory symptoms or a positive test, contact the practice before attending. Explain your symptoms and whether you have dental pain or swelling. The team can advise on the appointment and arrange appropriate care; do not simply ignore an urgent dental problem.

Seek medical advice through your GP or NHS 111 if symptoms worsen, do not improve or cause concern. Call 999 for severe breathing difficulty, such as being unable to speak short sentences at rest, or sudden chest pain. Do not delay emergency care because you think you have COVID-19.

For a dental appointment, contact the practice before travelling if you are unsure whether to attend.