People in close contact with COVID-19 patients no longer required to self-quarantine

The Health Ministry issues new guidance on medical measures for F0, F1 cases. Illustrative image (Photo: VNA) 

Hanoi (VNA) – People who have been in close contact with COVID-19 patients,
or F1 cases, are now no longer required to self-quarantine but
have to avoid going to places where people gather, according to a new guidance
issued by the on April 15.

The gives new definitions
of (or F0), and F1 cases, along with medical measures for
them, which takes into account the high vaccination coverage and a strong
decline in both serious cases and fatalities due to .

Accordingly, F0 patients are those testing positive for
SARS-CoV-2 by RT-PCR method, or those who either show clinical symptoms or have
epidemiological factors, and have positive antigen test result.

Meanwhile, F1 cases are those who have direct body contact with F0(s) during the
transmission period, or stay together with F0(s) within 1m in distance or in
closed space for at least 15 minutes wearing masks or not, or personally care
for, give checking and treatment to F0 during the transmission period without wearing
personal protective equipment.

The new rules require both F0 and F1 cases to
follow prescribed epidemic prevention measures.

Even though no longer required to self-quarantine, F1 cases are required to
wear facemasks, regularly wash or disinfect hands, and avoid close contact with
others. They should self-monitor their health and quickly contact medical
establishments when having suspicious symptoms in order to receive testing,
consultation, medical checks and treatment.

The new guidance replaces the previous ones on the definition of F0 and F1
cases and relevant  medical quarantine measures./.