Last Updated by MyHSN Editorial Team: April 2026
As of 2026, there are no legal COVID-19 restrictions in place across the UK. Management of the virus is now handled similarly to other respiratory infections like the flu.
If you or your child have symptoms of a respiratory infection, such as COVID-19, and have a high temperature or do not feel well enough to carry out normal activities:
Stay at Home: Try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people.
Return to Activity: You can resume normal activities once you feel well enough or no longer have a high temperature.
Children & Schools: Children with mild symptoms (runny nose, sore throat, or slight cough) who feel otherwise well can continue to attend school or childcare.
Testing is no longer a standard requirement for the general public.
Free Testing: Most people cannot get free NHS tests. Free testing is now reserved exclusively for specific groups, such as those at risk of serious illness who are eligible for COVID-19 treatments.
Private Tests: You can purchase lateral flow tests (LFTs) at most pharmacies and retailers.
Reporting: You are no longer required (or able) to report private test results to the NHS.
If you choose to take a test and it is positive, the current public health advice is:
Adults (18+): Try to stay at home and avoid contact with others for 5 days.
Children (Under 18): Try to stay at home for 3 days.
Vulnerable Groups: Avoid contact with anyone at high risk of serious illness (e.g., those with weakened immune systems) for at least 10 days after your positive test.
Entering the UK: There are no COVID-19 testing or quarantine requirements for travelers arriving in the UK.
New Entry Requirements: Note that as of February 2026, many non-visa travelers require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the UK.
Leaving the UK: Always check the FCDO travel advice for your destination, as other countries may still have specific entry requirements or health protocols.
The NHS continues to offer seasonal boosters to those at highest risk. For the Spring 2026 campaign (running April to June), eligibility includes:
Adults aged 75 years and over.
Residents in care homes for older adults.
Individuals aged 6 months and over with weakened immune systems.
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