Coronavirus Hub

Those who have tested positive for COVID-19 or have COVID-19 symptoms must now isolate for at least 10 days.

The updated guidance from Public Health England mandates an increase of the minimum self-isolation period for COVID-19 from 7 to 10 days.

• Those who have COVID-19 symptoms, however mild, must stay at home for a minimum of 10 days from the date on which symptoms first began. If a high temperature persists after 10 days, individuals must continue to isolate until their temperature returns to normal and seek medical advice.
• Those who have tested positive for COVID-19 but who are not showing symptoms must stay at home for a minimum of 10 days from the date of the positive test. If symptoms develop during this period, the 10 days should restart from the date symptoms first appear.
• Any person living in the same household as an individual with COVID-19 symptoms or a positive test result must stay at home for 14 days from the date the first individual became ill or tested positive. If any other person in the household develops symptoms during the 14-day period, they must stay at home for at least 10 days regardless of where they are up to in the 14-day period.

An amendment to the main Statutory Sick Pay regulations confirms that such people will be deemed as incapable for work and therefore qualify for SSP for the duration of their isolation.