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'I could have spread this to so many people'

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COVID-positive woman praises Govt's self isolation policy

A woman who tested positive for coronavirus says government's enforcement of self-isolation has been 'so important' in limiting its spread. 

Katie Banks from Douglas was among some of the first returning passengers to the Island instructed to remain at home for 14 days upon arrival.

The 25-year old was 10 days into her isolation period when she began presenting with symptoms:  

After discovering that she had a sore throat, a persistent cough and was feeling short of breath she called up 111 on Saturday (28 March) 'to be sure'. 

Over the weekend, she developed a fever, body aches and noticed that she had also lost her sense of smell and taste.  

The community nurse arrived at her home on Monday for testing and 48 hours later, Katie received confirmation via text message that she had tested positive.  

Today would have marked her last day in mandatory isolation.   

However, she has been confirmed as one of the Island's 26 cases this week and by law she must complete a further two weeks of quarantine at home.   

The total number cases on the Island currently stands at 68, with almost half of them recorded in the last five days. 

Katie is a contributor to Manx Radio's citizen journalism project, documenting life in self isolation. 

If you're interested in getting involved and sharing how the Island's coronavirus measures are impacting your life, email mystory@manxradio.com for more information.  

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