Home Isolation Policy in Introduced Commencing on Friday, 8th October 2021

On 7th October 2021, a total of 6,476 individuals have received the COVID-19 vaccine injection. According to the Minister of Health, this means that under the National Vaccination Programme, a total of 323,989 individuals have received the first doses of the COVID-19 vaccine which is 71.4 per cent from the total population. Meanwhile, 208 thousand 680 individuals have completed the second doses of the COVID-19 vaccine which is 46 per cent from the total population. Meanwhile, Taking into account the current situation of COVID-19 in Brunei Darussalam especially the management of COVID-19 patients and based on the latest scientific results and guidelines from the World Health Organization, WHO and management practices in several countries, commencing on Friday, 8th October 2021, the Home Isolation Policy for COVID-19 patients is introduced.

Yang Berhormat said the content of this policy is a directive to patients who are identified as under Category 1, that is, patients who do not have any symptoms and Category 2(a), that is, patients who have only mild symptoms; to undergo self-isolation at home only after obtaining assessment and confirmation from the Ministry of Health. Each COVID-19 patient managed under this policy will be required to undergo the following:

Monitored by the Patient Management Team, Ministry of Health throughout the 14-day self-isolation;

Mandatory to wear a red wristband for the purpose of identifying COVID-19 patients until the end of the isolation period; And Comply to all the directives from the Ministry of Health and ensure easy contact at any time. Patients who fail or defy in complying with this Home Isolation Policy may be subject to a compound fine of up to 5,000 dollars under the Infectious Diseases Act Chapter 204.

The Home Isolation Policy is introduced after comprehensive research was conducted to assess the suitability of the implementation of this policy in Brunei Darussalam. Findings from scientific studies; guidelines from the World Health Organization and similar practices that have been successfully implemented in several countries have given confidence to the Government that this policy can be implemented safely while providing comfort to patients to remain in their homes throughout the isolation period.

In the meantime, any patients who feel their symptoms are worsening while in isolation at home, should call the Ambulance Emergency Line 991 immediately so that they can provide treatment as soon as possible.

Source: Radio Television Brunei