Following advice from the Chief Medical Officer, and, in light of the latest available evidence and international experience relating to COVID-19, the Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly TD, has announced changes to Ireland’s self-isolation and restriction of movement rules following a Government meeting today (Wednesday).
The changes relate to the public health management of COVID-19.
Given the high levels of infection across the country, it is particularly important that cases and close contacts continue to follow the public health advice issued to the general population. For a period of 10 days (including the 7 days self-isolation or restricted movements) all cases and close contacts are advised to:
- limit close contact with other people outside their household, especially in crowded, enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces
- wear an appropriate face mask/face covering in crowded, enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces and where they are in close contact with other people
- take an antigen test before entering crowded, enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces and prior to having close contact with other people from outside their household
- avoid contact with anyone who is at higher risk of severe illness if infected with COVID-19
- work from home unless it is essential to attend in person
- follow all public health protective measures
The period of restricted movements for close contacts applies from date of last contact with positive case if known or, if not, from date of notification as a contact. Close contacts of any age who have recovered following COVID-19 detected by a PCR or antigen test carried out since 1 December 2021 are not required to restrict movements or test if asymptomatic. If they become symptomatic, they should immediately self-isolate, get tested and wear a mask as appropriate.
Cabinet have decided that these updates will come into effect from Friday 14th January. The Department of Health and the HSE will now work to operationalise same.
