Covid self isolation rules have changed in England

Health Secretary Sajid Javid announced yesterday that people infected with Covid-19 in England can stop self-isolating after day seven instead of day 10 if they provide a negative lateral flow result on day six and day seven.

The change is based on the latest guidance from health experts and has been brought in to minimise disruption caused by the rapid spread of the Omicron variant.

The new guidance applies to everyone, regardless of their vaccination status, including anyone currently in isolation. However, if they still have symptoms then they will need to continue to isolate. 

Bira welcomes the changes to the self-isolation rules with the self-isolation period reduced from 10 to 7 if there are two negative flow tests (on days 6 and 7). Please note that these rules only apply to England and we await further guidance from the other devolved countries. Andrew Goodacre, the CEO, said; “ There is at least some positive news with the government trying to reduce the impact of staff absences on workplaces during the current crisis. We should also not forget that the Chancellor has reintroduced the SSP rebate scheme.”