Mkhize: Covid-19 isolation revised down to 10 days

He says it has been proven that in mild cases the infection is only present for about eight days.

Asymptomatic patients will also have to remain isolated for 10 days.

Mkhize briefed media on Friday evening on the revised de-isolation guidelines, as well as the track and trace system.

“This recommendation is based in the evidence that most patients with a mild Covid-19 infection continue to share the virus from the upper airways for approximately 7 to 12 days.

“We therefore advise that an asymptomatic patient remain in isolation for a period of 10 days following the date of their positive results.

“These guidelines have been provided by the World Health Organisation.”

The guidelines take effect immediately.

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Mkhize says the department has received a recommendation of a further revision to 8 days but this is still under consideration.

“We understand the basis of the recommendation, we have agreed that we should initiate further engagements between our advisory ministerial committee experts and those of the WHO so that we take this discussion forward,’ Mkhize added.

He said the new guidelines apply to health workers as well, but they will get tested again on their fifth day of isolation.

Mkhize said there is no need for a re-test after the initial test.