From Monday 16th August 2021, fully vaccinated adults (who have had their second dose at least 14 days prior to contact with a positive case) and children will be free to return to work, attend school and meet friends and family as the protection from vaccines replaces the need for contact isolation.
These changes were announced last month, as part of step 4 of the Government’s Covid-19 roadmap. From next week, double jabbed individuals and under 18s who are identified as close contacts by NHS Test and Trace will be advised to take a PCR test as soon as possible to check if they have the virus and for variants of concern.
As double jabbed people identified as close contacts are still at risk of being infected, people are advised to consider other precautions such as wearing a face covering in enclosed spaces, and limit contact with other people, especially with anyone who is clinically extremely vulnerable. They will not be required to self-isolate while they wait for the results of the PCR test.
Anyone testing positive following a PCR test will still be legally required to self-isolate, irrespective of their vaccination status or age. Further, anyone who develops Covid-19 symptoms should self-isolate and get a PCR test and remain in isolation until the result comes back.
Further information about the changes due to come into force on Monday 16th August 2021 can be found here:
Undoubtedly this relaxation of the self-isolation rules will ease some of the staffing disruptions some organisations have been experiencing. That said, some people may be concerned about this change especially at a time when infection rates appear to be rising.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any particular questions about this.
Astons Solicitors
12th August 2021