FROM today, people who test positive for Covid-19 will be able to reduce their self-isolation period from ten to just seven days.

The Health Secretary, Sajid Javid, confirmed the news that you will be able to have a shorter isolation period if you receive a negative lateral flow test on day six and seven.

The first lateral flow test should be taken no earlier than day six of your isolation period, and the second on day seven but the tests must be taken 24 hours apart.

If both tests are negative you will be able to stop isolating but if your tests are positive you must complete the full ten days.

It is hoped that the shorter isolation period will lessen the impact on people's lives.

Speaking at last night's press conference, Mr Javid said: "It is great that when people do get infected that they are properly isolating. I think that clearly helps to stop and prevent infection.

"But it is important also to look at how we can have policies that will help to minimise that. And this step- again, informed by our clinicians- I think is a very sensible way forward."

The rules will come into effect today (December 22).