Mandatory isolation periods for people who test positive for COVID-19 will be removed in the Northern Territory from Friday 14 October 2022.
This change will allow Territorians to manage their own symptoms in line with the severity of illness. It remains important all people stay home when feeling unwell to help protect the community. This applies not just to COVID-19 but all illnesses.
The removal of mandatory isolation was confirmed following advice from the Commonwealth Chief Medical Officer to National Cabinet today.
The Chief Health Officer is reviewing COVID-19 policies and public health measures currently in place and any changes required will be confirmed closer to 14 October 2022. COVID-19 will remain a notifiable illness with a requirement to record a positive test.
High risk settings including aged care, healthcare and correctional facilities will still have policies in place for visitors and staff who test positive for COVID-19.
For COVID-19 information and updates visit here.
Quotes attributed to Dr Charles Pain, Chief Health Officer, NT Health:
"The change to the isolation period announced today represents an important milestone in our progress towards managing COVID-19 like other infectious illnesses.
"As with any infectious illness, it remains important that all Territorians stay home if feeling sick or experiencing COVID symptoms, so that they don't pass on their illness to others.
"It is also important we continue to protect the most vulnerable members of the community, and simple measures including staying home and wearing masks will continue to limit transmission.
"It is also important to seek further care for COVID-19 from your doctor if you are vulnerable and eligible for treatment."
