Public Health England have criticised the RFU's decision to ban Mako Vunipola from camp this week, branding the move unnecessary.
Earlier this week, the loose-head prop was a surprise inclusion in Eddie Jones' extended training squad to prepare for the game against Wales at Twickenham tomorrow.
But he was soon released from the squad amid coronavirus fears. Vunipola had recently returned from Tonga, where he had been for family reasons, via Hong Kong.
He was kept away from England's Pennyhill Park training base despite not displaying any symptoms of the virus.
Vunipola was then welcomed back to his club Saracens with open arms, sparking confusion around his banishment from the national camp.
Now, the agency that provide the government and the NHS with 'evidence-based professional and scientific expertise' have expressed their disappointment at the decision.
"PHE current guidance on coronavirus is clear on when self-isolation is necessary," said a brief statement.
"Earlier this week the Rugby Football Union asked a player, having returned from travel overseas, to leave the camp to avoid the risk of spread, which was not necessary as he was not displaying any symptoms.
"The RFU accept this and this clarification."
Vunipola will not feature against Wales this weekend.
Speaking at a press conference yesterday, England boss Jones said: "We take medical advice and that was the best we got. Mako understands that fully."
