Coronavirus self-isolation guidelines updated

The isolation period for people who need to self-isolate or quarantine is being reduced from 14 days to 10 days from Thursday, 10 December, the Welsh Government has announced.

It will apply to those who have tested positive for Covid-19 or have had close contact with a person who has tested positive, and travellers returning from non-exempt countries.

Reducing the isolation period is endorsed by the Chief Medical Officer for Wales Dr Frank Atherton and is based on the current available evidence around likelihood of being infectious as a contact after 10 days.

The new advice also applies to those with symptoms of Covid-19 who are waiting for a test result, or who have not been tested and do not require hospital treatment.

The self-isolation support scheme payment of £500 is unaffected by these changes.

Bridgend County Borough Council leader Huw David: “Self-isolation can be difficult for residents so the council welcomes this announcement that the period is being safely reduced.

“This change will reduce the length of time children and young people spend away from face to face learning, reduces the impact on those with caring responsibilities and helps to relieve the disruption for businesses and our vital public services.

“It is vital that residents follow self-isolation and quarantine guidelines as they play a key role in stopping the spread of coronavirus. If you or someone you live with has a high temperature, new continuous cough or loss of smell or taste you should follow self-isolation guidelines and request a coronavirus test.”

You can check your symptoms on the NHS 111 Wales website. For more information about testing, visit the Welsh Government’s coronavirus test webpage.