Isolation can leave people feeling frustrated while being shut up inside for several days at a time, but there are only very specific reasons a person can leave the place where they are self-isolating

Self-isolating is one of the most important and best ways people can help slow down the spread of the coronavirus.

The virus is currently rife in the UK at moment, with the new Omicron variant now the dominant strain.

On December 22, 2021, UK Covid cases soared by 106,122 in the biggest ever increase since the beginning of the pandemic.

Staying indoors for an extended period can be tough for a lot of people as they miss social interactions, regular exercise in the fresh air and other enjoyable aspects of daily life.

Activities like exercise or going for a simple walk can be vital for the upkeep of our mental health.

So what rules apply to people that are self-isolating, and can you go for a walk?

Can you go for a walk while isolating with Covid?

Unfortunately, going for a walk involves leaving your home or the place you are isolating, which is not allowed when you test positive for Covid.

The NHS specifically advises that people should not go out for exercise and must instead exercise in their home or garden if they have one.

It might feel great to get some fresh air, but people could be putting others at risk if they are still contagious.

In fact, the health service is very clear on what not to do when a person is self-isolating.

Those that are isolating should stick to the following guidance:

• Do not go to work, school or public places – work from home if you can

• Do not go on public transport or use taxis

• Do not go out to get food and medicine – order it online or by phone, or ask someone to bring it to your home

• Do not have visitors in your home, including friends and family – except for people providing essential care

When can you stop isolating with Covid after testing positive?

Businesses and the NHS have been struggling with staff shortages due to the number of people isolating in the country.

In a bid to help this, Health Secretary Sajid Javid authorised fully vaccinated people to stop doing so after seven days, provided they test negative on days six and seven, on the advice of the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

People previously had to self-isolate for 10 days and must still do so if they test positive on day six or seven, or they are not fully vaccinated.

If, after 10 days, a person is still positive then they must continue to isolate.

People who live with someone who is self-isolating do not have to isolate if they are fully vaccinated, but are advised to take a lateral flow test every day for seven days and minimise their contact with others.

If a person is not fully vaccinated and is in the same household as someone who is, they are legally required to self-isolate.