Covid-19: All legal restrictions dropped

The Island is now dealing with the virus as endemic

It’s time to move forward from Covid-19 with confidence but not complacency.

That’s the message from the chief minister on the day that all legal restrictions surrounding Coronavirus are dropped.

At 00.01am today mandatory self-isolation for those who had tested positive for the virus ended.

All remaining border restrictions – including isolation, testing and the requirement to fill in landing cards – were also removed.

It’s part of government’s attempt to deal with Coronavirus as an endemic disease similar to other illnesses including flu and norovirus.

Residents are being asked to continue making ‘responsible decisions’ if they are unwell but are being told not to routinely test themselves if they're asymptomatic.

Alfred Cannan says it is the right time to change the Island’s approach:

The daily Covid-19 dashboard is also being dropped.

It’s led to concerns, from some in the community, that people who consider themselves vulnerable to the disease won't have access to information they need to make informed choices.

This week an additional Covid ward at Noble’s Hospital was opened to cope with the number of patients who were in hospital with the virus.

A two-week ban on visiting was also imposed at health and social care sites.

Health Minister Lawrie Hooper says whilst the health service is under pressure measures are needed to mitigate risk:

The government has confirmed leaflets with information about the Coronavirus changes are being distributed to all households on the Isle of Man.

You can also find out more HERE.