I work in a supermarket, close contact, with customers, should I self isolate for 12 weeks: vulnerable groups

[Fitbit-Joe]

Been trying last few days to get answer from my doctors clinic, to no avail, but then learned the clinic is closed, 3-5 receptionist have covid-19

Have considered phoning nhs-24 to get answers to my question, on whether I should isolate for 12 weeks, if I fall into one of the vulnerable groups

Don't think I would get a proper answer to my question, but seeing many of us on here, have similar health problems, I think possibly I get more of an idea, what the risk would be to myself, based on your thoughts

I already know of 4 work colleagues, possibly have the virus, and there now in isolation for 7 days

To me the government advice on who is in a vulnerable group, isn't clear, and there should be more detail

My general condition is bradycardia, with resting heart rate of 42 bpm, occasionally feel exhausted and tired, but get by. Last Sept had a period for three months, where I was fatigued, and experienced irregular heart beats, but by late Dec my health improved

[DevonHubby1]

I heard of a simple rule of thumb. If you are encouraged by your GP to get the winter flu jab then they consider you at risk.

Sorry to hear its hitting so many around you, and hope you stay safe.

[Spanaway]

I'd isolate myself until I talked with my cardiologist or primary doctor.

[sherbertlemon]

My husband has multiple sclerosis + quadruple heart bypass + deals with 160 people on a construction site most of them European. His companies own Health and safety dept has sent him to work from home. Obviously you cannot do that..however if your highly vunerable then yes you are allowed to self isolate but ensure they are aware of this at management level in your work. But certain stores (tesco's) allow vunerable people to food shop with only other vunerable people, but get what you can food wise while its reasonably safe. IF you remain in work (my sons part time job in BQ while at university) follow protocol + wear plastic gloves, stand at least 6ft from any customers and at check outs (our tesco has the floor taped which you have to stand behind while waiting for check out operator). keep up fluid intake so your bloods not thicker which can help fight ANY bacteria or virus caused infection and blood clots and keeps your body temperature lower. you can get plastic gloves behind the pharmacy desk (£5.50 for 100)which actually wash pretty well so reusable. you are also allowed to wear face masks if its of any help. Ive had heart ablation emergency surgery in oct 2019 and have severe asthma (with bog standard ongoing chest infection) and these minor protections have worked SO FAR. GOOD LUCK.