The list of symptoms for Covid-19 has been extended in Jersey.

Before now, the three main symptoms were:

• A fever
• A continuous cough
• A loss or change to smell and taste.

That list has been lengthened because of the new Omicron variants.

The government says informing islanders of the additional symptoms will tell them when they should get tested.

The updated most common symptoms are the onset of one or more of:

• A blocked or runny nose; sneezing
• Feeling tired or exhausted
• Sore throat and/or hoarse
• Headache or dizziness
• New, continuous cough
• High temperature or shivering (chills) 
• Shortness of breath
• Aching body
• Loss or change to your sense of smell or taste
• Loss of appetite
• Diarrhoea
• Feeling sick or being sick

People with any of these symptoms are being urged to stay at home and book a PCR test.

"COVID-19 can affect people in different ways, and as new variants emerge the range of symptoms may also change. So, following the emergence of the Omicron variants we have updated the list of the commoner symptoms seen to ensure Islanders are aware of when they should consider infection with COVID. 

The spring season often causes people to suffer with allergies, it is very important not to confuse COVID-19 for allergies or a cold. If you have any of the listed symptoms, or if you are generally feeling unwell, the best thing to do is stay at home and book a PCR test." - Dr. Ivan Muscat, Deputy Medical Officer of Health.

People who have Covid-19 still have to isolate in Jersey.

The legal requirement to isolate was extended until the end of April because of the emergence of a new sub-variant of Omicron.

There are currently 1,282 known active cases of Covid-19 in Jersey. 12 of them are being treated in hospital.

The updated guidance has been agreed by Dr. Muscat and makes sure Jersey's list is the same as the NHS one.