Changes to self-isolation guidance 

From 7 August, 2021 

As you may be aware the Welsh Government announced on 29th July changes to the guidance for self-isolation. The below Frequently Asked Questions have been compiled as a guide for all staff at the Council and should be followed with effect from 7 August 2021 – the same day as Wales is expected to move to alert level zero, if the public health situation allows.

• What are the changes?

  All adults who have been fully vaccinated will no longer have to self-isolate if they are identified as close contacts of someone with coronavirus from 7 August 2021.

   

  Children and young people under 18 will also be exempt from the need to self-isolate if they are also identified as close contacts of a positive case.

• What if I am fully vaccinated and test positive for Coronavirus? 

  This remains unchanged, everyone who tests positive for coronavirus must continue to isolate for 10 days, whether they have been vaccinated or not.

   

  If you have symptoms of Coronavirus you should isolate and seek a PCR test.

• What will happen if I have been identified as a close contact? 

  The Track Trace and Protect (TTP) service will use the Welsh Immunisation Service to identify adults who are fully vaccinated and who will no longer be required to self-isolate if they are identified as close contacts.

   

  From 7 August, instead of instructing fully vaccinated adults to isolate, contact tracers and advisers will provide them with advice and guidance about how to protect themselves and stay safe.

   

  The TTP service will provide a “warn and inform” service for all fully vaccinated adults and under-18s, who are identified as close contacts.

• If I am identified as a close contact will I have to complete a PCR or LFT test? 
  Everyone identified as a contact of a positive case will continue to be advised to have a PCR test on day two and day eight, whether they are fully vaccinated or not.
• What if my role at the Council involves working with vulnerable people within the community? 

  Some extra safeguards will be put in place for those working with vulnerable people, particularly health and social care staff, including a risk assessment for staff working in health and care and daily lateral flow tests. Our Health and Safety Team will work with these teams to ensure all appropriate safeguards are put in place once full guidance on these measures have been shared.

   

  Members of the public will be strongly advised not to visit hospitals and care homes for 10 days.

• Are there any changes to the work from home guidance? 

  No, this remains in place, for those who can work from home you should continue to do so. For those who wish to return to work, guidance has been produced by the Council to support you to work from our offices in a Covid safe way. 

   

  Summary for working safely in the office

• If I develop symptoms how can I book a test? 

  Tests can be booked as part of the key worker process by sending name, address, DOB, and symptoms through to the Covid-19 Testing e-mail address. This key worker testing is conducted at a drive through centre at Whitchurch hospital. These tests are conducted by trained nurses.

   

  You can also apply for a postal PCR test or attend a testing centre at a location closer to your home through the government website.

• Where can I find further information in relation to these changes? 

  Further information can be found on the Welsh Government website.

   

  Queries can also be sent to our Covid-19 Enquiries mailbox in relation to work queries, risk assessments and Health and Safety guidance.