Guernsey will introduce a new system of self-isolation requirements for travellers dependent on their port of origin.
From 17 August, travellers from certain areas with low rates of coronavirus infection will be allowed to isolate for a week, subject to a negative result from a seven-day test. They will then be required to undergo passive follow-up.
In what the island’s Civil Contingencies Authority (CCA) is calling Phase 5b of its Exit from Lockdown Framework, three categories of country will be introduced, which will determine the self-isolation period for travellers.
‘This decision by the CCA has been made after consideration of advice from the Director of Public Health and an analysis of the data from the trial of the testing on day seven programme which was carried out in July.
‘We know that people need to travel to see their loved ones and to take children to university etc. Reducing the self-isolation requirement to seven days (on receipt of a negative result) with passive follow up, will hopefully make these trips more manageable for islanders,’ said Deputy Gavin St Pier, Chair of the CCA.
‘However, we still cannot be complacent as we can see from the situation regarding COVID-19 for our near neighbours and beyond.
‘No decisions to reduce the requirement for self-isolation are without risk, but the introduction of group A, B and C countries will mitigate these risks.’
The requirement to self-isolate meant that Guernsey was still, effectively, ‘closed for tourism,’ said Deputy St Pier at a recent media briefing. Even if borders were to reopen, he said, hospitality would not see a return to normal operation.
Alderney will not be participating in the new Phase 5b arrangement, meaning passengers entering from outside the Bailiwick will need to self-isolate for 14 days. However, Sark will be taking part.
What does Phase 5b mean for travellers?
Anyone travelling from a Group A country within the previous 14 days must enter compulsory self-isolation for 14 days.
Anyone travelling from a Group B country can either self-isolate for 14 days or self-isolate for seven days, then take a test for SARS-CoV-2. Subject to a negative result, travellers will then undergo ‘passive follow up’.
Passive follow up means a person must report any Covid-19 symptoms and return to self-isolation and arrange for a test immediately. They must not visit a hospital unless for emergency care, in which case, prior notification should be given. They must also discuss with the relevant healthcare service, for example the GP or Hospital Clinic, if attending an appointment during the period of passive follow up. They must not visit a care and residential home without prior arrangement with the Care Home Manager.
Anyone travelling from a Group C country is not required to undertake any self-isolation or testing. So far, only the Isle of Man qualifies.
(Feature image via Airport.gg)