Covid-19: New self-isolation rules in Republic of Ireland

People in the Republic of Ireland who test positive for Covid-19 will only have to self-isolate for seven days, rather than 10.

The new rules will come into effect from Friday, after the Irish cabinet approved the changes on Wednesday.

Close contacts who show no symptoms and are fully vaccinated no longer have to isolate for five days.

They will be advised to take regular antigen tests and wear a higher grade mask.

People who have not received a booster vaccine will have to isolate for seven days.

PCR tests will no longer be required to confirm a positive antigen test result for people aged four to 39 years old.

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly said: "These changes will reduce the requirement for restricted movements for close contacts while enhancing other protective measures particularly mask wearing and reiterating the importance for all of us to continue to follow the public health measures.

"Today saw the 10 millionth dose of Covid-19 vaccine administered - a milestone we should all celebrate.

"These changes will also enable such individuals to attend their booster vaccine appointment, supporting increased uptake in the vaccination programme overall."

Irish Health Minister Stephen Donnelly said the changes would help the vaccination programme

Mr Donnelly said that for a period of 10 days (including the seven days self-isolation or restricted movements) all Covid cases and close contacts are advised to:

• limit close contact with other people outside their household, especially in crowded, enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces

• wear an appropriate face mask/face covering in crowded, enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces and where they are in close contact with other people

• take an antigen test before entering crowded, enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces and prior to having close contact with other people from outside their household

• avoid contact with anyone who is at higher risk of severe illness if infected with Covid-19

• work from home unless it is essential to attend in person

• follow all public health protective measures

The period of restricted movements for close contacts applies from the date of the last contact with a positive case if known or, if not, from date of notification as a contact.

Last month, the Northern Ireland Executive agreed to reduce the isolation period from 10 to seven days if people could provide a negative lateral flow test.

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The Republic of Ireland recorded 19,290 cases on Tuesday, down from 23,909 cases on Monday.

The total number of deaths related to Covid-19 in the Republic of Ireland since the start of the pandemic is 5,952.