Health Dept Backtracks on Decision to Scrap COVID-19 Contact Tracing & Quarantine Protocols

The Health Department has backtracked on its decision to scrap contact tracing and quarantine protocols after receiving backlash. 

Earlier this month, the department announced that all COVID-19 contact tracing would be stopped with immediate effect and would no longer impose restrictions on asymptomatic carriers of the coronavirus.

The department said it has been inundated with inquiries since the release of the revised protocols on Contact Tracing, Quarantine and Isolation. 

Spokesperson Foster Mohale said the reason for the revision was based on a number of scientific factors including the fact that, most people have vaccinated with at least one vaccine dose and developed some level of immunity.

 “This has contributed to the current low hospitalisation and high recovery rates. Secondly, many people do not show any symptoms, and only a small percentage of them are diagnosed.” 

Mohale said an amended circular will be re-issued once all additional inputs and comments have been considered.