The case for active self-isolation
CURRENTLY, it is a legal requirement for the majority of arrivals into the Bailiwick to go into self-isolation and not leave their accommodation (though I do understand that from 17 August there is the option to take a test after seven days, and on receipt of a negative result to be under passive surveillance).
With rare exception, this period of self-isolation will result in people being physically far less active.
Studies into the effects of reduced physical activity over a period of two weeks have shown ‘…changes in health markers that are associated with Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease’.
People who suffer from poor health are less able to fight the effects of the coronavirus.
Therefore, would it not be better to find a way that not only protects the community, but also protects the physical and mental health of those in isolation?
Has the Civil Contingencies Authority considered allowing people to ‘actively self-isolate’, i.e. be permitted to go out and exercise provided they keep physically distant from other people?
In response to the concern that some would use this as an opportunity to do more than permitted: the vast majority of the population adhere to the law and would continue to do so; those who do not know the penalties and suffer the consequences for doing so.
Also, based on figures from the trial here in July and from Jersey, well over 99.9% of arrivals have tested negative. Therefore, the risk is very low and with the robust test, track and trace already in place, there should be confidence in the system to manage any positive cases found.
Until such time as quarantine restrictions can be relaxed, permitting active self-isolation would be a step in the right direction.
ANNIE ASHMEAD
2, Mullavilly,
Bulwer Avenue,
St Sampson’s,
GY2 4LB.