The self-isolation period has been reduced for people arriving in Scotland from countries not on the quarantine exemption list or those who have come into contact with a positive case.
Previous guidance was to remain indoors for 14 days but recent clinical advice has allowed this to be reduced to 10 days.
The change will take effect from Monday after discussions between the UK’s four chief medical officers.
It will also come into force then for people who are already self-isolating.
“After reviewing the evidence, we are now confident that we can reduce the number of days that contacts self-isolate from 14 days to 10 days,” a joint statement from the chief medical officers said.
“People who return from countries which are not on the travel corridor list should also self-isolate for 10 days instead of 14 days."
“People who test positive should continue to self-isolate for 10 days from onset of symptoms or 10 days from point of taking a positive test if asymptomatic.
“We urge everyone to self-isolate when appropriate, it will save lives.”
Health Secretary Jeane Freeman described self-isolation as “critical” to stopping the spread of Covid-19.
She said: “While self-isolation may be for a shorter period, it remains vital that everyone who is required to do so remains at their home or other named address for this time.
“Only by doing this can we break the chain of transmission of the virus, protect the NHS and save lives.”
