Coronavirus

Experts all over the world are working on ways to stop the spread of coronavirus. But there are things we can all do to help: 

• wash your hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
• cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and wash your hands as soon as you can afterwards
• wear face masks if you’re told you should, and on public transport
• avoid hugging or touching other people
• try to stay at least 2 metres away from people you see outside or in public places
• talk to an adult you trust if you have questions.

You can find out more about how to stop coronavirus spreading on the NHS website.

If you’re not able to go out, or you’re trying to social distance, there are still lots of ways to keep in touch with people:

• talk to people you know using facetime or video chat
• contact a friend you haven’t heard from since the lockdown started to say hello
• start a new group chat with people you care about
• play a new game with people you live with, or watch something new with them on TV
• write a letter to someone you trust, telling them how you feel.

It’s natural to be worried about what’s happening in the world. You might be worried about older or more vulnerable people you know getting ill, or about your school closing and how it’ll affect your exams. Everyone is different and will react in different ways, but it’s important to try not to panic.

If the coronavirus or feeling worried about what's happening is making it hard for you to cope then there are things you can do:

• use the Calm Zone to find games or tools that help you relax
• take a break from watching or reading the news to do something you enjoy
• ask an adult you trust about what's happening if you're unsure or worried
• do things every day to take care of yourself, especially if your routine changes.

It can be hard to know how often you should wash your hands, especially if you have OCD or you’re struggling with your mental health. If you're struggling, it’s important to get help by talking to an adult you trust.

There’s a lot of information online about Coronavirus, and you might hear different things from people you know. But not everything you hear or read about will be true.

There are some simple things you can do help make sure you’re getting the right information:

• learn how to spot fake news or information that might not be true
• read information from websites you know and trust, like Newsround or the NHS
• if you’re not sure about something you’ve seen or heard, ask a teacher or another adult you trust.

Remember, if you're worried or you don’t understand something, it’s always okay to ask questions.

Coronavirus might have a big effect on people you’re close to, you might be worried about:

• family getting ill, especially if they’re older or vulnerable
• your family going back to work, or having to work as key workers
• not being able to help or see people.

Whatever your worry, it’s important to talk about it. You could start by asking someone you trust questions about what’s happening or ways that you can help.

Even if you can’t help in a practical way, letting people know that you're worried can be a good way to show them that you care. 

Coping with loss

If someone close you has died, it can be hard to know how to cope. But you’re not alone, you can speak to a Childline counsellor about anything, and we’ve got support that can help.

Depending on where you live, you may be allowed to travel to see people. It’s better to stay in your local area if you can, but if you are going to travel:

• talk to your parent or carer about where you want to go
• walk or cycle to places when you can
• wear face coverings on public transport if you’re able to (you might not be able to travel if you don’t)
• avoid taking car trips with friends or family you don’t live with.

It can be tough when you’re getting the support you used to, or if things have gotten more difficult.

If you can, talk to an adult you trust like your parents, carers or teachers when things are getting hard. You can also always get support on the message boards or from Childline.

Remember, if you’re not feeling safe at home, we can help.

It’s easy to get bored when you’re stuck at home, so why not try learning a new skill with our copying kit. From practicing juggling to teaching yourself origami, the possibilities are endless. If you’re not sure, try asking for inspiration on the message boards.

If you think you have coronavirus, don’t go to your doctor or GP unless you’re told to. You can get advice on what to do using NHS 111 Online.

When you or someone you live with is having symptoms of coronavirus, then it’s important to stay at home. At the moment, it’s recommended that you all stay at home for 14 days after someone gets ill.

Staying at home can help to stop disease from spreading, especially to older people who are more at risk. Remember, most people who get coronavirus will get better without ever needing to see a doctor or GP.

You can find out more about what to do if you get ill on the Government website.