Omicron patients, both showing symptoms and mild symptoms, are allowed to self-isolate so long as they meet clinical and residential requirements as regulated via the Health Ministerial Circular No. HK.02.01/MENKES/18/2022 concerning prevention and control of the Omicron variant cases of COVID-19 dated January 17, 2022.

“For confirmed asymptomatic cases of COVID-19, isolation is carried out for a minimum of 10 days since the specimen for diagnosis confirmation is taken,” as read in point 1(b) of the circular.

Meanwhile, patients showing symptoms must undergo ten days of isolation since the symptoms appear with at least additional three days of free symptoms of fever and respiratory issues.

The clinical and behavioral requirements include being under 45 years old, having no comorbidities, being able to access telemedicine or other health services, and being committed to staying isolated before being allowed out.

Additionally, in the residential requirements and other supporting equipment, patients can stay in a separate room, or even better on separate floors, use a different restroom with other family members, and have an oximeter.

If the Omicron patients do not meet clinical and residential requirements, they must be isolated in a centralized isolation facility determined by the government.