Self-isolation explained

Self-isolation is an important way to protect yourself and others, and slow down the spread of COVID-19. Although you are no longer required to self-isolate by law, it is still recommended that you stay home and avoid contact with others if you have symptoms of or test positive for COVID-19.

You should follow this advice if:

• you have COVID-19 symptoms
• you are waiting for a COVID-19 test result
• you have tested positive for COVID-19 via a PCR OR lateral flow test
• you have returned to the UK from a country with a high COVID-19 risk - please see the Government website for the full list

Please see the gov.uk website for the most up to date guidance.

Living with vulnerable individuals

If you live with someone who is 70 or over, has a long-term condition, is pregnant or has a weakened immune system, try to arrange for them to stay elsewhere with friends or family for 10 days. If this is not possible:

• Avoid shared spaces for example by using separate bedrooms and bathrooms, and the vulnerable person should eat in their room
• If you can’t avoid shared spaces, try to keep 2 metres (3 steps) away from each other and keep windows open in any shared spaces
• Keep toiletries, laundry, cutlery and kitchen utensils separate - for example toothbrushes, sheets, towels, crockery and cups
• Wash bedding at 60-90°C, and wash cutlery and kitchen utensils thoroughly with soap and warm water or in a dishwasher
• Disinfect toilets and bathroom surfaces after use and disinfect bedroom surfaces at least once a day
• Wash your hands before and after using the bathroom and kitchen, and before contact with the vulnerable person