Coronavirus is “approaching the fast growth part of the upward curve”.
England’s Chief Nursing Officer has confirmed that the new 14-day isolation rules apply to all health and social care staff, including NHS workers.
Following yesterday’s announcement by the Prime Minister, families have been advised to self-isolate for 14-days if any member of their household has a persistent cough or high temperature.
The prime minister also warned that COVID-19 was “approaching the fast growth part of the upward curve”.
Today Ruth May, England’s Chief Nursing Officer, has confirmed that self-isolation guidance applies to all health and social care workers.
In a statement, Ruth May, confirmed; “we must protect our NHS people in the same way as our public therefore the self-isolation advice from [England’s Chief Medical Officer] applies to all”.
Self-isolation.
The official coronavirus guidelines for healthcare professionals also confirm that the self-isolation guidance “applies to everyone including NHS staff”.
Dr. Patrick Vallance, the Governments’ Chief Scientific Advisor, explained; “the entire household stays together isolated for 14 days”.
Adding; “The reason for that is the other people may pick it up over the seven days or five days period and then they have got seven days to have it and get better or to be asymptomatic and have it for seven days.”
Experts have been quick to point out that the new isolation rules have the potential to decimate the healthcare workforce overnight.
The NHS has issued working from home guidance to Trusts for non-clinical and support staff.
NHS England has not responded to a request for comment.
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