Those with coronavirus symptoms will have to self-isolate for ten days, an increase from the previous period of one week.
The announcement of an extended period of self-isolation follows ministers attempts to avoid a resurgence of the virus in the UK. At present, those who exhibit the main symptoms, including a new and continuous cough, a high temperature or a loss of taste and smell, must self-isolate for seven days.
It is expected that government officials will set out details later. It is believed that the devolved nations will follow suit.
The announcement follows Boris Johnson’s warning of a “second wave” in parts of Europe.
While health secretary, Matt Hancock is yet to confirm the policy change, he has said that the government wants to "take a precautionary approach" and "protect people from that wave reaching our shores".
Professor Peter Openshaw, who is part of the body advising the government on respiratory viruses, supported the government’s decision, saying: “I can absolutely understand why the government might wish to introduce these changes.”
The government is expected to review the restrictions introduced to Leicester, a month after the city was put into extended lockdown following a spike in cases, while several local outbreaks across the UK, including Oldham, Wrexham and Staffordshire have caused concern.
Under current rules, those who exhibit signs of the virus are asked to self-isolate for seven days and should continue to isolate if they feel unwell beyond this period. Others in the same household are to self-isolate for 14 days.
