LFD results 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.
The first test must be taken no earlier than day 6 of the self-isolation period.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.There is no change to the guidance for unvaccinated contacts of positive COVID-19 cases, who are still required to self-isolate for 10 full days after their date of exposure to the virus.Analysis by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) suggests that a 7-day isolation period alongside 2 negative lateral flow test results has nearly the same protective effect as a 10-day isolation period without LFD testing for people with COVID-19.The new approach reflects latest evidence on how long cases transmit the virus for, and supports essential public services and supply chains over the winter, while still limiting the spread of the virus.Studies also demonstrate that LFD tests are just as sensitive at detecting the Omicron variant, as they are for Delta.Existing public health measures remain in place including:staying at home if you feel unwellget a test if you experience any COVID-19 symptomswear a face covering in crowded, enclosed spaceswork from home if possiblemaintain social distancing and regular hand washingtake up the offer of the free COVID-19 vaccineDr Jenny Harries, Chief Executive of UKHSA, said:COVID-19 is spreading quickly among the population and the pace at which Omicron is transmitting may pose a risk to running our.