Coronavirus infections and hospital admissions rose in England last week, but more than a quarter say they would still go to work if they tested positive.
Office for National Statistics data shows 3.8 million were estimated to have coronavirus in the week to July 13/14. That's a rise of seven per cent from the 3.5 million recorded the previous week.
This is the highest estimate for total infections since mid-April. But is still below the record high of 4.9 million seen at the peak of the Omicron BA.2 wave at the end of March.
Read more: You may have Covid-19 if you wake up with these symptoms
Kara Steel, ONS senior statistician for the Covid-19 infection survey, said: “Infections have, overall, continued to increase in England, reaching similar levels to those seen in April during the BA.2 wave.
“However, we are seeing some uncertain trends in the latest data across the other UK countries, some English regions, and among some age groups. It is too early to say if this most recent wave is starting to peak, but we will continue to closely monitor the data.”
Despite the latest wave, a poll suggests concern about Covid-19 has fallen to its lowest level since the start of the pandemic. Around two-thirds of people surveyed (65%) said they are concerned about the risk coronavirus poses to the country. That is down from 71% in March, according to data shared with the PA news agency by poll company Ipsos.
More than a quarter (28%) said they would go to work if they test positive for coronavirus. More than a third (38%) say they would leave the house. Nearly half (47%) would go for a walk outside.
In England, people are advised to isolate if they test positive. But they are not required to stay at home, and special Covid sick pay for NHS staff has been scrapped.
Keiran Pedley, research director at Ipsos, said: “Although concern about the virus is at its lowest level since the pandemic began, it should be noted that a majority of the public are still concerned. They are also prepared to avoid seeing others or spending time in public places should they test positive for the virus.
“This all shows that, whilst other issues, such as the cost of living, might be more foremost on people’s minds, the public are still prepared to take the virus seriously.”
How to report a Covid-19 test and what you should do if it is positive, negative, or void
With a rise in coronavirus levels, you may want to consider taking tests, especially if you develop symptoms or have been around a positive case. Below are reminders on how to report coronavirus tests, when you should report them and what you should do if it is positive, negative, or void.
How and when to report a lateral flow rapid coronavirus test
You may think you're supposed to only report a Covid test if it's positive. But strictly speaking, you're supposed to report them if they are negative or void too.
The NHS says: "Report your test result (positive, negative, or void) every time you do a free NHS rapid lateral flow test for coronavirus."
Gov.UK says reporting every result helps to reduce infections in communities, protects those at higher risk and prevents the spread of the virus.
You should report Covid tests results within 24 hours of taking the test. You will need the QR code or ID number printed on the test strip and a mobile phone number if reporting online. Those who can't use the internet can report their result via the 119 phone number.
Head here to report a lateral flow test result. You will need an NHS log-in, if you haven't got one, you can create one in two minutes.
Do I have to isolate if I test positive for Coronavirus?
There is no longer a legal requirement to isolate. But if you test positive you "should try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people for five days after the day you took the test," GOV.UK's rules for England have stated since April.
What do I do if my Covid test is negative? Should I stay home?
You don't have to do anything. However, there is a chance you still may be infectious. So you are advised to follow advice on how to avoid catching and spreading the virus, by hand washing, wearing a mask, keeping your distance and opening windows if you live with others.
If you have symptoms, you are advised - but not forced - by the NHS to "try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people".
What should I do if my Covid test is void?
A void test means the result is uncertain. You should do another test as soon as possible and are advised, but not required, to stay home and away from others as much as possible if you feel unwell or have symptoms.
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