England has reduced the COVID-19 self-isolation period from ten days to seven days for individuals who test positive, provided they receive negative lateral flow test results on days six and seven. The change aims to balance controlling the virus’s spread with minimizing disruption to the workforce.
Health Secretary Sajid Javid addressed safety concerns by stating, "This decision has been informed by the advice from our clinicians at the UK Health Security Agency who have looked at this very carefully, and they are very comfortable that the protection it provides is very similar to ten days of isolation without tests."
The adjustment comes as the UK grapples with record-high infection rates. Over the past week, an average of 90,000 positive cases have been recorded daily, marking a 63 percent increase from the previous week. Surging case numbers have led to significant workforce disruptions, particularly in the National Health Service (NHS).
The British Medical Association recently warned that nearly 50,000 doctors, nurses, and other staff could be absent from work by December 25 unless the government implements tougher measures. Officials emphasize that the shortened isolation period is guided by scientific evidence and may help alleviate staffing shortages while supporting the economy.
The move by England is closely watched by other regions and countries as they assess their own COVID-19 policies amid the ongoing pandemic.
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UK split over restrictions as England cuts COVID-19 isolation period
cgtn.com
