The new restriction, introduced from midnight tomorrow, will be backed by strict new emergency powers, which also will allow enforcement of testing, isolation and/or detention of anyone in the Bailiwick suspected of being infected.
'Many islanders have readily followed the guidance provided by Public Health and self-isolated where appropriate, in line with the official advice,' said Policy & Resources president Gavin St Pier.
'But there are exceptions and if we really want to slow the spread of coronavirus, we must introduce these powers. We will be ready to use these powers to enforce self-isolation if required.'
The updated travel restrictions cover all modes, including private vessels, and includes travel between the Bailiwicks of Guernsey and Jersey, but not within the Bailiwick of Guernsey (between Guernsey, Alderney, Sark and Herm).
An exemption list for ‘critical roles’ to travel for reasons that are critical to the running of the island will accompany this measure and is currently being prepared.
Anyone in self-isolation having entered the Bailiwick who develops symptoms, however mild, of a cough, fever or shortness of breath must ring the coronavirus helpline on 01481 756938 and 01481 756969.
‘The decision to insist on self-isolation for anyone entering the Bailiwick for 14 days is a significant change and one which has the potential to impact a number of islanders,' said Health president Heidi Soulsby.
'All evidence shows us that if we can contain the virus and prevent community seeding we can lessen the burden on our health and care services.
'Self-isolation is difficult but the guidance must be adhered to. As well as not going to work, school/childcare, anyone in self-isolation must stay at home and not think that it is all right to just pop out to the shops, have friends round, or go for a walk.
'The Bailiwick community has been great so far in responding to this challenging situation. Please look out for your friends, family or neighbours who are in self-isolation and may need some practical help to get them through the 14 days.’
Travel advice for the Bailiwick is now as follows:
* No non-essential travel. Those undertaking essential travel (ie. for medical care in the UK) will be required to self-isolate for 14 days upon their return. Only ‘critical’ travellers will not be required to self-isolate. Guidance on ‘essential’ and ‘critical’ travel is being issued today.
* Businesses or individuals who are expecting visitors should advise those visitors not to come unless their role is included on the exempted list of critical roles. Anyone who goes against this advice and travels into the Bailiwick will be required to self- isolate for 14 days. This requirement will be enforceable under emergency powers.
* Any individual leaving the island for essential reasons must take into account the requirement which will be upon them to self-isolate on their return as well as the risk of falling ill outside the island and the treatment that may or may not be available at that time in the location in which they find themselves.
* Students: In view of the rapidly changing environment across the world including the closure of many institutions, potentially for an extended period, we would encourage students and their parents to consider returning to the island sooner rather than later, even if this requires a period of self-isolation. If any students is symptomatic before their return they should contact their student health service or Public Health Services in Guernsey.
The measures come in at 1 minute past midnight on Thursday 19 March.
The full States release is here
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