If you've tested positive for Covid, you might be able to leave self-isolation from 7 days onwards (instead of 10) if you've had two negative lateral flow tests taken 24 hours apart and do not have a temperature.
You can take the tests on the 6th and 7th days of isolation – at least 24 hours apart – if both tests are negative, and you haven't got a temperature, you can leave isolation.
If either test is positive you must remain in isolation.
You can continue to take daily LFT tests on days 8, 9 and 10 and if you have two negative tests 24 hours apart and do not have a temperature, you can leave isolation.
To further reduce the chance of passing Covid on to others, you are strongly advised to:
limit close contact with other people outside your household, especially in crowded, enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces
work from home if you can
wear a face covering in crowded, enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces and where you are in close contact with other people
limit contact with anyone who is at higher risk of severe illness if infected with COVID-19
If you've claimed a self-isolation payment and you end your isolation on day 7 (after two negative tests), you can still claim the full payment.
For more information visit the NHS website.Covid is Spreading - Get vaccinated now
The Omicron Covid variant is spreading and pressure on the NHS is increasing.
Covid cases in Oldham are high and growing rapidly – vaccination is the best way to protect yourself from serious illness, having to go to hospital or dying as a result of the virus. It also reduces the chance of getting Covid and passing it on to others. Vaccinations are now available to anyone aged 12 or above.
And, if you’re an adult and it’s been at least three months since you had a second vaccine dose, you can now get a booster jab – get extra protection this winter.
Over the past 7 days, Oldham's Covid rate is 646 per 100,000 population, which is higher than the rate of 385 for the previous 7 days.
75.6% of Oldham residents have had their first vaccine, 74.2% have had their second vaccine and 64.2% (of eligible) have had their booster. For more details on where to get vaccinated in Oldham visit our website
Frank Rothwell named Business Ambassador for the Borough
Council Leader Arooj Shah has proudly named businessman and fundraiser Frank Rothwell her first Ambassador for Business.
Frank, owner and founder of Manchester Cabins, became the oldest man to row unassisted across the Atlantic Ocean last year, raising over £1m for Alzheimer's Research UK in the process.
Over the years, Frank has supported many local organisations and, last year, donated £30,000 to Action Together to help the charity continue its vital work supporting the Oldham community throughout the pandemic.
He will now assist us in engaging with businesses across the borough, providing an expert voice and helping steer our approach to supporting and growing local businesses.
As usual over the festive period, the availability and opening times of some council services will temporarily change as our teams take time off to be with their loved ones.
You can find out what services are open and when, including emergency contacts, by visiting Christmas closures
We'd like to wish all our residents a wonderful Christmas.
It's been another challenging year, but we've all stuck together, followed the guidance and helped to protect our loved ones.
