Dear all,
The UK Government announced changes to the self-isolation rules on the 22nd December, please see these changes highlighted below.
When do I have to self-isolate?
Across the UK you must self-isolate for 10 days if you:
- Test positive for COVID or have COVID symptoms
- Are waiting for the results of a PCR test after developing COVID symptoms
- Are an adult who has not been double vaccinated, who lives with someone who tests positive (or who has COVID symptoms)
- Are an adult who has not been double vaccinated, who has been identified as a close contact of someone who has tested positive
A lateral flow test (LFT) should be taken each day of isolation, and those who receive negative LFT result on day 6 and day 7 of their self-isolation period – with tests taken 24 hours apart – will no longer have to self-isolate for the full 10 days. If both tests are negative, you can stop self-isolating immediately (on day 7). If the first tests are positive, further tests can be taken on other days.
However, those who leave self-isolation on or after day 7 are strongly advised to limit close contact with other people in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, work from home and minimise contact with anyone who is at higher risk of severe illness if infected with COVID-19.
Close contact rules remain unchanged, as per the below:
What are the rules for contacts?
- If you are double vaccinated and come into contact with a person with COVID (all variants), you should take daily LFT for seven days, whatever your age.
- The tests should be taken from the day you're notified by NHS Test and Trace, and the results should be reported online or by calling 119.
- If one of the lateral flow tests is positive, you'll need to self-isolate and take a PCR test to verify the result.
- If the PCR is positive, you must self-isolate for 10 days from the day you took the positive LFT or developed symptoms.
- Even if the lateral flow tests are negative, you are "strongly advised" to limit contact with others.
- The government has temporarily suspended the ability to order LFTs online amid high demand.
We ask you all to remain vigilant throughout the festive period and adhere to to local government guidance.
If you have any queries or concerns, please email zzRM-COVID-19@ascoworld.com
Stay Safe,
The Task Force