By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Department of Health has decided to stop contact tracing and quarantining for contacts of confirmed cases of Covid-19, with immediate effect.
The department on Thursday night published revisions to contact tracing, quarantine and isolation protocols.
According to the amended protocols, all contact tracing would be stopped with immediate effect, except in congregate settings such as prisons and old age homes where a number of people reside in close proximity.
All contacts of confirmed coronavirus cases must not be tested unless if they develop symptoms.
A circular released by the department stated: “All contacts must continue with their normal duties with heightened monitoring (daily temperature testing, symptom screening) of any early signs.
“If they develop symptoms then they should be tested and be managed according to the severity of the symptoms.”
Quarantining
The quarantine requirement for people who have come into contact with someone who has tested positive should also be stopped with immediate effect, the department said. This applies to both vaccinated and unvaccinated contacts.
No testing for Covid-19 is required – unless the contact becomes symptomatic.
The Department said quarantine has been costly to essential services and society as many people stay away from their work and thus lose their income and children miss on their schooling.
Isolation of mild cases
Isolation rules are applicable to vaccinated and unvaccinated persons.
Last week, the Ministerial Advisory Committee (MAC) on Covid-19 advised that the isolation period for people who test positive for Covid-19 and are symptomatic be reduced from 10 to seven days.
According to the department, persons with mild symptoms should isolate for eight days. However, it notes that these individuals should continue wearing face masks at all times for the duration of the eight days – including at home, work, and in public spaces.
These individuals do not need to test for Covid-19 via a PCR or antigen test eight days after their isolation period and before returning to work.
In circumstances where isolation exceeds eight days, this must be supported by a medical report, the department said.
Asymptomatic
For individuals who are asymptomatic (displaying no symptoms), no isolation period is required.
The department advised individuals to do self-observation for 5-7 days for the development of any symptoms. They should also take precautions by avoiding spaces where there are gatherings, and continue to wear a face mask and practice physical distancing.
Severe disease