Latest Covid News
Today, Covid Plan B will be removed in England and there will be a relaxation of restrictions also in the devolved nations. Vaccination, immunity and better understanding of the virus have meant that people are not getting as ill as previously but let us not be too complacent as it still is a dangerous virus for those in our community who are more vulnerable.
Summary of main changes are:
- There is no legal requirement to wear face coverings for the Therapist or Client in England - However at this stage the ISRM STRONGLY recommend mask wearing.
- There remains a legal requirement for Therapists and Clients to wear face coverings in Wales and Scotland.
- In England it is now possible to end self-isolation after 5 full days if you have 2 negative LFD tests taken on consecutive days
- In Wales If you have symptoms of COVID-19, you should self-isolate and take a PCR test as soon as possible. You can leave self-isolation after 7 full days (on day 8 of your self-isolation period).
- In Scotland anyone who tests positive for Covid-19, regardless of vaccination status, must still self-isolate for 10 days. However, they can end self-isolation if they don’t have a fever and test negative on a Lateral Flow Device (LFD) on Day 6 and again at least 24 hours later.
- Hygiene, ventilation, regular LTF, vaccination, along with mask wearing, remain a key element in risk reduction.
If a client is exempt from wearing a face covering, they are not obliged to disclose the reason for the exemption but as a service provider you still have a duty to make reasonable adjustments to provide the service. Therefore, in such cases additional controls shall be put into practice.
- Presentation from the client of a negative LFT taken within 12 hours of the appointment.
- Client must wear a visor except when lying prone.
- No treatment around the neck or face area.
- Increase ventilation during treatment (if possible).
- Reduced treatment times to allow longer air ventilation before the next client.
If a client is unable or unwilling to comply with these extra controls, you can refuse to treat them.
Please read through the guidance, modify your risk assessment and change your procedures accordingly.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/nwmklc4wtlfwjhp/isrm_guidelines_Jan%202022FINAL.pdf?dl=0
Thank you