With hundreds of thousands of people continuing to test positive for Covid in the UK, it's clear that the pandemic is far from over.
And, as the Omicron variant continues to spread across Britain, staff shortages are causing concern in the NHS with 'record numbers' of self-isolating doctors, nurses, receptionists and other key workers.
On December 22, 2021, the government followed UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) advice to cut self-isolation periods from 10 days to seven.
While the move is one many people welcomed, it also caused confusion as to when self-isolation begins and when it should end, along with what to do if you continue to test positive for the virus.
So, we've got everything you need to know following the self-isolation rule change.
Can you stop self-isolating after seven or 10 days if you still test positive on a lateral flow test?
While the previous law forced people to isolate for the full 10 days, regardless of if they tested negative on an LFT, the new rules allow people to stop self-isolating if they test negative on lateral flow tests on days six and seven.
The NHS guidance states that this is only under the following conditions:
- Both tests are negative
- You did both tests at least 24 hours apart
- You do not have a high temperature
However, if you test positive on day six or seven, you must continue to self-isolate until at least day 10, YorkshireLive reports.
And, if you still test positive on day 10 while encountering Covid symptoms, you must still continue to self-isolate. Symptoms, according to the NHS, include: "If you have a high temperature after the 10 days, or are feeling unwell, keep self-isolating and seek medical advice."
The NHS guidance also states that you can end your isolation after 10 days if:
- You do not have any symptoms
- You just have a cough or changes to your sense of smell or taste – these can last for weeks after the infection has gone
When does self-isolation begin for Covid?
You must self-isolate immediately and get a PCR test as soon as possible if you have Covid symptoms including a high temperature, a new or continuous cough, or a loss or change in your sense of taste and smell.
If you've taken a lateral flow test and have tested positive, you must also self-isolate.
Those who are unvaccinated must also self-isolate if someone you live with has Covid symptoms or has tested positive for the virus.
The NHS says: "If you test positive, your self-isolation period includes the day your symptoms started (or the day you had the test, if you did not have symptoms)."
