NI self-isolation cut from 10 days to 7
The change kicks in on Friday Jan 31st.
Last updated 31st Dec 2021
Self-isolation after testing positive for coronavirus in Northern Ireland has dropped from ten days to seven days.
This applies if the person in quarantine can provide negative lateral flow results on day six and day seven, with those tests taken 24 hours apart.
If the lateral flow tests are positive individuals must continue to isolate for the full 10 days.
The Department of Health has agreed the new approach, which reflects latest evidence on how long cases shed the virus and can infect others and the ability of lateral flow tests to detect when people are infectious.
With staff shortages crippling many sectors, especially healthcare, it is hoped the changes will facilitate continued provision of essential public services over the winter, while still limiting the spread of the virus.
Dr Elizabeth Mitchell, Director of Contact Tracing Service at the PHA said: “This means those infected with COVID-19 in Northern Ireland can stop self-isolating up to three days early if they test negative on two consecutive days.
“Those who leave self-isolation on or after day seven are strongly advised to limit close contact with other people in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, and minimise contact with anyone who is at higher risk of severe illness if infected with COVID- 19.”
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Nightclubs remain closed
Contact in domestic settings is limited to three households
Customers are required to remain seated in hospitality settings, a maximum of 6 people, or 10 people from a single household is allowed at a table. (Children aged 12 and under are not counted in the total. This requirement does not apply to weddings or civil partnership celebrations.)
Indoor seated and all outdoor events can proceed and it is strongly recommended that face coverings should be worn, LFD tests should be taken before attending events and there should be no multi-household travel in the same vehicle.
The 'work from home' message is encouraged and legislation introduced to require social distancing in workplace. Employers are encouraged to have lateral flow testing procedures for staff coming to work.
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