Strict penalties for those who flout self-isolation rules says Quayle

Chief minister and enterprise minister speak at latest coronavirus conference

Chief Minister Howard Quayle has asked people to "seriously consider self-isolation" if they are someone deemed to be in a high-risk category, but added it's still not obligatory by law.

That includes members of the community who are over 70 years of age, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions.

He also issued clarification about what self-isolation means, saying those doing so must stay at home.

Use of private property is permitted - including going in gardens - but those self-isolating must not leave the property.

Mr Quayle went on to thank people coming to the Island since midnight last night for 'acting responsibly' and self-isolating as required.

The chief minister also reiterated that if someone is self-isolating in your home, you are not obliged to follow suit, but he did emphasise the importance of social distancing and minimising the risk of spreading COVID-19 wherever possible.

Furthermore, elective surgery at Noble's Hospital has been suspended until further notice, Ramsey Cottage Hospital has become the receiving centre for minor injuries, and visiting at Noble's has become 'severely restricted' - with only immediate family allowed to visit for 'critical reasons' with permission of ward staff.

Mr Quayle added "individual sacrifices are needed for the greater good," thanked members of the public for their diligence, and said the situation is "subject to change, even at short notice."

You can watch the conference, which was broadcast by Manx Radio at 4pm today and will be available online as a podcast, in the video below: