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Ending isolation

8 replies

Anonapapple · 18/07/2021 10:37

Before anyone jumps on me, I'm just thinking out loud-I'm not going to end isolation early.

I travelled from an amber country 7 days ago to see family here in the UK. Had a negative pcr test before the flight. Negative Day 2 test on arrival. Have been isolating with family. Not possible to do the Day 5 'Test to Release' where I am. Also double vaccinated, although that was just shy of 14 days ago, so not quite the full 2 week quota.

I understand why we have to self isolate. I understand there has to be a set amount of days for consistency. However, some of the rules just seems so illogical.

Why is it ok for people in some parts of the UK to be released on Day 5 with a negative test, and yet in others, isolation has to continue for an additional 2 days after a negative test on Day 8?

I asked the Track and Trace guy on the phone if I can come out of isolation on the 19th, when the rules change. He said no, that only applies if you arrive on the 19th or after. Fair enough, but logically, surely I am less risk having been doubly vaccinated and by that stage will have had 3 negative tests (hopefully) than someone straight off a flight!

I understand that rules are rules etc, but something about it feels so futile! I know 10 tens isnt that long compared to some people, but I am actually struggling a bit. I will see the 10 days out as I am a rule follower generally, but this all seems so made up.

What do you all think? Again, I knew the rules when I booked my flight and I have been religious about not breaking my isolation, but it just doesnt seem to add up.

OP posts:
anniegun · 18/07/2021 10:53

Follow the lead of our PM and do exactly what you want

chocolatesaltyballs22 · 18/07/2021 10:56

I'd come out of isolation on the 19th if I were you. The rules make no sense and no fucker else is following them.

Anonapapple · 18/07/2021 12:27

Really? I was expecting some 'granny killer'accusations! I honestly dont think I am more of a threat than whatever travellers enter the country from tomorrow. My husband and family and members are pretty much saying I'm a mug for following through with the full 10 days. I kind of feel silly, especially as I am pretty sure I dont have Covid! I dont think I am endangering anyone any more than someone in England who was able to get a test to release on day 5 (if my day 8 test is negative).

OP posts:
chocolatesaltyballs22 · 18/07/2021 12:45

OP I'm on day 8 and planning to go out tomorrow. Just took a lateral flow test - negative. Someone flying back tomorrow wouldn't even have to isolate - it's bonkers.

99victoria · 18/07/2021 13:14

I agree that it's ridiculous. OH and I came back from an amber country last Saturday - tested before we boarded the plane then on day 2 when we got home (both negative obviously). Almost daily calls from T&T asking me if I was isolating and telling me the symptoms of coronavirus and what to do if I got them (as if I don't know after 18 months of this shit show!)
Day 5 test to release - results comes through in less than 24 hours so on day 6 we're free to resume life as normal - yay! No calls from T&T day 6 or 7 so figured they must know we have been released - is there actually some joined up thinking going on?

No, of course not. Today I get a call from T&T going through all the usual stuff about symptoms and what I should and shouldn't do etc. They ask if I've opted into the Test to Release scheme. I query that surely they know that. No, they say, they just have my name and phone number, no other details. They're just ringing to remind me that I have to take my day 8 test today. Yes, I know, I say - came back from our weekend away with family, just so we could take it.

I feel like banging my head against a wall at how illogical and pointless this all is!

Anonapapple · 18/07/2021 13:23

@chocolatesaltyballs22 thanks for sharing! I agree, it's crazy that someone flying back tomorrow wouldnt have to isolate! I am usually such a stickler for the rules but these rules seem to have been pulled out of nowhere! If I had been in contact with someone with covid I would be much more cautious but this seems silly.

Where do you get lateral flow tests?

OP posts:
Anonapapple · 18/07/2021 13:25

@99victoria yes! So illogical and pointless! Even the phonecalls are pointless!!!

Had anyone had an actual doorstop visit having travelled from an amber country? That's what I'm dreading.

OP posts:
chocolatesaltyballs22 · 18/07/2021 13:28

Most pharmacies are giving away the lateral flow tests for free.

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