Self-isolation to be reduced from next week?

It’s hoped from next week - self-isolation periods on Island can be reduced.

Speaking in today’s Coronavirus conference, the Chief Minister said ‘As things stand’ - the governments intention is from Monday - (24 May) -  anyone travelling to the Island who has not been outside of the United Kingdom, Guernsey or Jersey in the 10 days prior to arriving here will no longer have to isolate for seven days.

He reiterated it is subject to people agreeing to be tested for COVID- 19.

From next week, people will still have to isolate immediately on arrival, but if they then agree to take a test - within 48 hours of arrival - and the result is negative, they will be free to leave isolation - this test will cost £30.

The only restriction will be the requirement to avoid health and social care sites  – until ten days after arriving on the Island.

An exception of course would be for anyone needing emergency treatment.

A second COVID-19 test will also be required six days after arriving on the Island - this test will be free of charge.

Anyone who has been outside of the United Kingdom, Guernsey or Jersey – and for the moment this does include Ireland – in the 10 days prior to arriving on the Island will have to isolate for seven days.

This longer period of isolation reflects the increased risk posed by those who have travelled outside of the UK.

Again, this is subject to the traveller agreeing to testing.

A test will be required within 48 hours of arrival and another on day six - at £30 each. If both results are negative, the traveller will be able to leave isolation.

If a traveller chooses not to undergo testing, they will be required to isolate for 21 days. They will have to isolate alone or those they travelled with.

These changes will be retrospective for those already in self-isolation on 24 May.