From March 31, people who test positive (or show symptoms) will be asked to stay away from school, work or sensitive locations (such as healthcare settings) for at least 48 hours after symptoms have stopped, and keep their distance from others.

If a positive individual needs to go out, they are being ’strongly advised’ to wear a face covering.

People will also be advised to continue to record positive cases for surveillance purposes, but those with Covid-19 will no longer be required to identify their close contacts to Public Health.

Lateral flow tests will continue to be provided for free, unlike in the UK where the government has been charging for them. Self-testing will continue to be encouraged.

Instead, they are being advised to notify their own close contacts and encouraged to advise their employer, particularly if they work in a sensitive location such as a care home.

They will be advised to stay home, keep warm and rest as part of their recovery, as with other viral infections.

Antiviral and other appropriate treatments for Covid-19 will remain available, particularly for those most at risk from the virus.