COVID-19 advice if you’re in temporary accommodation
Advice if you're in temporary accommodation on how COVID-19 spreads, testing, who can get the vaccine and what to do if you have the virus.
If you're staying in temporary accommodation there are ways you can protect yourselves from COVID-19.
What is COVID-19 and what causes it
COVID-19 is an illness that mainly affects your lungs. It’s caused by a virus called coronavirus.
How COVID-19 is spread
COVID-19 is spread through droplets, or particles, which people breathe in and out. Someone with COVID-19 can release particles into the air when they breathe, speak, cough or sneeze.
People nearby may get COVID-19 if they:
- breathe in these particles
- touch surfaces where the particles have landed.
The risk of COVID-19 is higher in crowded and enclosed spaces. This is because there are more people who might be infectious, and less fresh air.
You can get COVID-19 and spread it to others even if you have had a vaccine.
How to stay safe from COVID-19
To reduce your risk of catching or spreading COVID-19 you can:
- get vaccinated if you're eligible
- let fresh air in if meeting indoors – open windows or doors
- wear a face covering, in crowded and enclosed spaces (you’re advised to wear a face covering on the Transport for London network)
- avoid other people if you have COVID-19 symptoms or test positive
- wash your hands or use sanitiser.
Get more advice on how to avoid catching and spreading COVID-19.
What to do if you have COVID-19 symptoms or test positive
Main symptoms of COVID-19
Find out the symptoms of COVID-19 in adults.
Find out the symptoms of COVID-19 in children.
What you need to do if you have COVID-19 or symptoms
Even if you’ve had one or more doses of a COVID-19 vaccine you:
- should follow the latest advice if you have COVID-19 or symptoms
- tell whoever you are staying with (for example hotel staff or a host family) you're unwell
If you're staying in a hotel, the staff can help you arrange your meals and other needs whilst you stay in your room.
Who can get tested for COVID-19
Most people in England are no longer advised to get testing. Find out what you can do instead of taking a COVID-19 test
Find out who is still eligible for free COVID-19 testing through the NHS.
Download the NHS app to keep a record of your COVID-19 vaccination
You can use the NHS app to get secure access to NHS services on a smartphone of tablet. You can also use it as digital proof that you've had a COVID-19 vaccine.
Download the free NHS to your smartphone or tablet
Getting COVID-19 advice in your own language
- You can call NHS 111 who can provide a translator if you need one
- Get information in different languages about COVID-19 from Doctors of the World
- Get translated advice on how to help protect yourself from COVID-19 (from Southampton University).
Page last updated: 14 April 2022
