Honiton: Self-isolation for those with COVID-19 can end after 5 full days

From Monday 17 January, people with COVID-19 can end their self-isolation period after five full days, so long as they tested negative on day five and six and they do not have a temperature.

Anyone that is still testing positive on their rapid lateral flow tests must stay in isolation until they have had 2 consecutive negative tests taken on separate days.

Individuals who do leave self-isolation on the sixth day are strongly advised to wear face coverings and reduce close contact with other people, especially anyone particularly vulnerable to Covid-19. They should work from home if possible.

The change to government policy was announced on 13 January by the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Rt Hon Sajid Javid MP.

According to Javid, a review of the scientific evidence has shown that people are unlikely to be contagious on day six of their self-isolation period.

Shortening the length of self-isolation is necessary to support essential public services and keep supply chains running over the winter period.

In a government statement, Javid said: "After reviewing all of the evidence, we've made the decision to reduce the minimum self-isolation period to 5 full days in England.

"These two tests are critical to these balanced and proportionate plans and I'd urge everyone to take advantage of the capacity we've built up in tests so we can restore more freedom to this country, whilst we are keeping everyone safe."

You can find out more information here

Lateral flow tests are available in Honiton at Boots, Lloyds and Tesco. They are also available from the Covid-19 van outside St. Paul's Church on Mondays and Thursdays.