Government Slashes Coronavirus Holiday Quarantine From Two Weeks To Five Days

The government has slashed the UK's coronavirus self-isolation period after travel to just five days from December 15th, if people can present a negative Covid-19 test.

Under the new regulations - announced today - holidaymakers who arrive in the UK from a destination which isn't on the government's travel corridors list will still need to self-isolate, but only for five days rather than the originally stipulated two weeks.

This is only if the traveller has paid for a private Covid-19 test which proves they are negative, though - and its worth noting that tests can cost anywhere from £65 to £120.

Results for tests are normally be issued in 24 to 48 hours, meaning travellers could be out on day six of quarantine, all being well.

Those who cannot present a negative test will still have to self isolate for the full two weeks.

In a statement today, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said the move was to "focus on what we can now do to bolster international travel while keeping the public safe".

You can watch a video of the announcement here:

"Our new testing strategy will allow us to travel more freely, see loved ones and drive international business," he said.

"By giving people the choice to test on day five, we are also supporting the travel industry as it continues to rebuild out of the pandemic."

Health Secretary, Matt Hancock, explained the reason people would have to fork out for a Covid-19 test privately was to "protect the capacity of NHS Test and Trace and ensure that any UK resident who has symptoms is able to get a test".

The news has been welcomed by the travel industry, who describe it as "long overdue".

It will also likely be a relief for those travelling or expecting visitors at Christmas.

International travel for leisure is currently banned as the UK is in Lockdown until December 2nd.

The Prime Minister Boris Johnson yesterday announced that England will come out of lockdown, as promised, next week, but face "toughened" three-tiered regional restrictions from then on.

Featured Image Credit: Pexels

Topics: Travel News, Life, Coronavirus

Joanna Freedman

Joanna is a journalist at Tyla with a particular interest in highlighting women's issues and telling inspiring first person stories. She's also their resident foodie, and loves covering exciting new beauty launches, too. Contact her at [email protected].

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