Changes to self-isolation rules from 7 August 

02 August, 2021 

Dear colleagues,  

Last week the First Minister announced changes to the self-isolation rules that will come into effect this week.

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. 

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. 

Importantly everyone who tests positive for coronavirus or has symptoms must continue to isolate for 10 days, whether they have been vaccinated or not. 

Our colleagues in the Cardiff and Vale 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. 

Safeguards will continue to apply for those working with vulnerable people, particularly in health and social care staff settings.

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. 

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

The move signals another milestone in our journey out of the Covid-19 pandemic and is very welcome. The changes will help ease the pressure on vital services caused by the recent rapid rise in Covid cases, both our own and those provided by our partners. 

There has been no change to the national policy that everyone should work from home wherever possible and this remains the Council’s position. In June I sent a message to all staff outlining interim arrangements for office-based working where this is considered essential. This guidance can be found on StaffNet+.  

Answers to frequently asked questions around the changes to self-isolation guidance have also been compiled on Staffnet+.

Regards, 
Rob Thomas.