We have seen an increase in positive COVID-19 tests reported by students living in Halls this week. Case numbers in Reading have also increased recently, along with other areas of the UK, as restrictions are being eased as we move out of lockdown.

We are working closely with Public Health England (PHE) and our Case Management Team will contact any student who reports a positive test to us, as well as any student identified as having been in close contact with those who have reported a positive test to us. If you are contacted, by our team or by the national Test & Trace team, please follow all instructions and guidance closely.

This is a timely reminder that we must not become complacent. A significant increase in cases could mean restrictions being reintroduced, or result in a delay of the next step of the government’s roadmap out of lockdown. We must all continue to play our part to keep us all safe.

Regular lateral flow testing – if you do not have symptoms

The government is strongly encouraging everyone in England to take regular lateral flow tests (twice a week, three days apart) to help early detection of the virus in those without symptoms. This is a key part of their strategy to keep positive cases as low as possible as restrictions are lifted.

You can now pick up a box of 7 test kits from our collection points at the Library Café and Park Eat (open from Monday to Friday – excluding Bank Holiday Monday – from 10am to 4pm). If you have not already done so, please collect a pack of kits and take a test as soon as possible, and then continue to do so regularly. You will also be automatically entered into a weekly free prize draw to win a £10 voucher to spend at Park Eat, the Dairy, or Library Café (terms and conditions apply).

If it is more convenient for you, you can also pick up test kits at many local pharmacies or order online for home delivery. Further information is published on Essentials.

It is important that you register your result (positive or negative) on the government website.  If your result is positive, you and your household must self-isolate immediately and you will need to book a PCR test. Please also let us know as soon as possible so we can support you and your close contacts. Further information is published on Essentials.

Symptoms and PCR testing

If you have any of the main symptoms of COVID-19, you must self-isolate and get a PCR test straight away. These are:

• a high temperature;
• a new continuous cough;

or

• loss or change to your sense of taste and smell.

Research has shown that there are several less-common, ‘early symptoms’ of COVID-19. PHE have advised that these may include loss of appetite; diarrhoea; nausea/vomiting; extreme tiredness; headaches; joint pain; muscle ache; runny nose; sore throat; sneezing; altered consciousness; seizures.

You do not need to self-isolate or get a PCR test if you experience these without any of the main three COVID-19 symptoms. However, it is important to pay particular attention if you experience these ‘early symptoms’. Whilst in normal circumstances they may not be a cause for concern, we must all be mindful of the current increased risks that COVID-19 presents.

If you feel unwell with any of the ‘early symptoms’, we recommend that you:

• monitor the symptoms closely, limit contact with others by staying at home as much as possible, and pay extra attention to cleaning any shared areas after use;

and

• take a lateral flow test – if you do not have some already, you can collect a pack from one of our campus collection points, or from a local pharmacy, or order for home delivery.

Remember that you should self-isolate and get a PCR test, if you develop any of the main symptoms – even mildly.

Respect and tolerance

As emphasised through our #NeverOK campaign, we are committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for our whole community. There have been some concerning reports nationally about racist incidents connected to the origin of new variants. We will not tolerate any form of bullying, harassment or discrimination for any reason so, if you have any concerns, please report these through #NeverOK.

Student support

We understand news of an increase in cases may be worrying. Please do not forget all the support resources that are available for you, both academically and in relation to your wellbeing and mental health.

Please continue to check your University email account, the Me@Reading student portal and the student app for the latest information and advice. If you have questions or need further support, please contact our COVID-19 Support & Behaviour Team at covid-support@reading.ac.uk.