The NHS Test and Trace programme is continuing to identify people who are known to have been in close proximity to anyone who has tested positive for coronavirus via a PCR test.
In Devon, our team is helping to trace those close contacts and advise them on further steps to reduce risk to themselves and others.
Known contacts of people who test positive for COVID-19 no longer have to self-isolate if they’re fully vaccinated or aged under 18 years and six months. But people can still catch coronavirus even if they are fully vaccinated, and spread it to others even before they show any symptoms.
Devon’s Director of Public Health, Steve Brown, said:
“Contact tracing continues to be an essential part of reducing coronavirus transmission and containing outbreaks.
“If you are contacted by the tracing team, or you receive a message from the Test and Trace app to tell you that you’ve been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, please be extra cautious.
“If you are fully vaccinated or under 18 years and six months, take a PCR test to see if you have also caught the virus and self-isolate if you test positive. If the PCR test result is negative please look out for symptoms, continue to test regularly with lateral flow device tests, and follow the public health guidance around wearing face coverings, fresh air and good hand hygiene.
“If you’re traced as a contact of someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 and you’re not fully vaccinated, you are required to self-isolate because you are at greater risk of catching and passing on the virus.”
You can find out more about NHS Test and Trace on the NHS website.