Half of double jabbed throw caution to wind on isolation

HALF of double-vaccinated people who have been in contact with an infected Covid case would not self-isolate for 10 days, even if they developed symptoms, figures show.

The first survey by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) since the Government removed the isolation requirement for those who are double-jabbed found many no longer feel the need to stay indoors.

However, 45 per cent said they would still maintain the 10-day isolation period, even though it is no longer required.

The research also found that 69 per cent would not socially distance themselves more than usual after being contacted by NHS Test and Trace, while 75 per cent said they would not wear a mask in shops more often.

The results show that 90 per cent would request a test to check if they had been infected if they developed symptoms. The survey did not ask how they would behave after testing positive.

Commenting on the findings, Tim Gibbs from the ONS, said:“this study was introduced to understand how double vaccinated adults behaved when no longer legally required to self-isolate.

“It’s reassuring to see that more than 90 per cent say they took a Covid-19 test after finding they had been in contact with someone who tested positive.

“In some cases, this contact made them behave more cautiously afterwards, for example by avoiding crowded places.

“We will continue to explore this issue further in the coming months.”

The Government scrapped the mandatory 10-day self isolation period in August, although it advised people contacted by NHS Test and Trace to take a

PCR test as soon as possible. Anyone testing positive following the “gold standard” test is still legally required to self-isolate, irrespective of their vaccination status.

The research showed that nearly one in five people (18 per cent) who had two jabs went on to develop symptoms after contact with an infected person.

However, just one in 25 people who had the booster jab (4 per cent) reported symptoms following contact with a coronavirus case.