People told to self-isolate if they experience anosmia

The four UK Chief Medical Officers have made a statement to advise the public that anosmia is now a symptom that should warrant self-isolation.

Previously, individuals were advised that they should self-isolate if they develop a new continuous cough or fever. From today the symptom of anosmia has been added.

In a statement issued this morning Chief Medical Officer for Wales, Dr Frank Atherton, Chief Medical Officer for Northern Ireland, Dr Michael McBride, Chief Medical Officer for Scotland, Dr Gregor Smith and Chief Medical Officer for England, Professor Chris Whitty said the following:

“From today, all individuals should self-isolate if they develop a new continuous cough or fever or anosmia.

“Anosmia is the loss or a change in your normal sense of smell. It can also affect your sense of taste as the two are closely linked.

“We have been closely monitoring the emerging data and evidence on COVID-19 and after thorough consideration, we are now confident enough to recommend this new measure.

“The individual’s household should also self-isolate for 14 days as per the current guidelines and the individual should stay at home for 7 days, or longer if they still have symptoms other than cough or loss of sense of smell or taste.”