STAFFORDSHIRE health chiefs are encouraging close contacts of positive Covid-19 cases to continuing getting PCR tests after the self-isolation rules change.

Now close contacts of positive cases no longer haves to isolate, provided they are fully vaccinated or are under 18.

People who have symptoms or test positive for the virus will still need to self-isolate for 10 days.

But while not a legal requirement, all fully-vaccinated people identified as a close contact of a positive case are being advised to get a PCR test to ensure they are not Covid-positive. They do not need to isolate while they await their test results.

Dr Johnny McMahon, Staffordshire County Council's Cabinet Support Member for Public Health and Integrated Care said: "This [change] is certainly welcome, and will end the so-called "pingdemic" we have been experiencing recently.

"However, it's important for us to remember that Covid-19 is still very much with us, and we must do everything we can to stop it spreading.

"This is why we're encouraging everyone who has been identified as a close contact, but does not now need to isolate, to get themselves a PCR test as soon as possible. This way, they can be sure they are not unwittingly spreading the virus.

"It is also important to keep following the rules around Covid-19 to prevent the spread – continuing to wash our hands, wear a face covering in crowded areas, and ensuring good indoor ventilation to blow the virus away.

"This is especially important as we move into the autumn and winter months, where respiratory illnesses spread more easily.

"To those who are still unvaccinated or have only had one dose, I would strongly recommend you book your appointment as soon as possible, and avoid having to isolate when identified as a close contact."

The rules around self-isolation can be found here.