People who test positive for Covid-19 are reminded that they must self isolate for a minimum of 5 full days.

Despite the lifting of Plan B restrictions last week, self isolation requirements remain in place to help stop the onward spread of the virus.

The day symptoms begin or people test positive, either via a rapid (LFD) or PCR test, is classed as day zero. The next day is day 1 of the isolation period.

People can now take a rapid test on day 5 of their self isolation; if it is negative, they can take another rapid test 24 hours later on day 6. If this is also negative, and they do not have a temperature, they can immediately leave isolation. 

People who still test positive on days 5 or 6 must stay in self isolation until they have had 2 negative tests taken on consecutive days, or until 10 full days have passed since their first tested positive or they developed symptoms.

Councillor Jasbir Jaspal, the City of Wolverhampton Council's Cabinet Member for Public Health and Wellbeing, said: "The removal of the Plan B measures last week is another step towards normality but, with nearly 3,000 people in Wolverhampton testing positive over the last 7 days, it’s clear that the virus hasn’t gone away.

“While they may be frustrating for people who have to isolate, the rules around self isolation are helping to prevent the spread of the virus and it’s crucial that people follow them.”

Please note that due to unprecedented demand nationally, home rapid Covid-19 test kits are currently limited to 1 box per person. The supply received at collection points in Wolverhampton runs out as quickly as it becomes available and people are asked to only collect kits if they absolutely need to at this time. 

Instead, people are advised to order a home test kit via GOV.UK in the first instance. The process is quick and easy and people will receive a box of 7 tests, delivered via Royal Mail, in as little as 24 hours. Test results must be reported via GOV.UK or by calling 119.

People with symptoms of Covid-19 – symptomatic – are reminded that they must self isolate immediately and book a PCR test online at GOV.UK or by calling 119.

There were 1,077.5 new cases of Covid-19 per 100,000 people in Wolverhampton over the last 7 days. That means 2,834 people tested positive for the virus in that same period – though the true number of cases will likely be higher.