The Cabinet has approved changes to close contact isolation rules at a meeting this morning.
The new regime will come into place from midnight tomorrow.
The new changes mean asymptomatic close contacts who have been boosted won't have to restrict movements.
But they will be advised to take antigen tests and wear medical grade masks.
Non-boosted close contacts will have to restrict for seven days.
Under 40s who test positive on an antigen test won't need a confirmatory PCR test.
While all confirmed Covid cases will need to isolate for seven days.
Minister for Health @DonnellyStephen announces updates to public health management of #COVID19 cases and close contacts:https://t.co/8WCVAtLVzy
— Department of Health (@roinnslainte) January 12, 2022
Despite the ECDC warning the approach isn't evidence based, Taoiseach Micheál Martin says it's a balancing act.
Health Minister Stephen Donnelly admitted there's an element of risk to the approach, but it will free people up to return to work.
The rules are due to take effect midnight tomorrow.
