Mandatory 14 days of self-isolation for those arriving from Britain, irrespective of their COVID-19 test result

DUBLIN: As a precautionary measure, the HSE released new guidelines as the number of COVID-19 cases continues to increase in London and the South East of England.

Previously, it was suggested that those arriving in Ireland from the UK could stop restricting their movements if they received a negative PCR test result five days or more after their arrival. But HSE’s latest update makes it clear that it will no longer be possible.

The HSE has given advice, including 14 days of self-isolation, to anyone who has come from Britain to Ireland since 8 December, regardless of their COVID-19 test results.

Those arriving from Britain must be in isolation (stay at home or stay in your room) for a period of 14 days from the date of arrival in Ireland.

You should take a COVID-19 test by calling GP or GP Out of Hours as soon as possible 5 days after your arrival in Ireland. Even if your test results show negative, continue to isolate yourself for a period of 14 days. Because you may still be developing symptoms, and you need to protect others from potential risk.

If you develop any symptoms of COVID-19 at any stage, phone your GP and alert them of your recent travel from Britain. If you have travelled from the UK, do not visit a nursing home or long-term residential facility until you have completed your 14 days of self-isolation.

Dr. Colm Henry said that this is a strict advice for people travelling to Ireland. But he added that “our priorities must be to keep our friends and family safe over Christmas”. “I am asking all those who have travelled to please heed this advice and show this meitheal [community] spirit that we have seen throughout the pandemic,” he said.

“Our current protective actions to prevent the spread of COVID-19 are still the best protection we have against all strains of this virus” Dr. Henry said.