As Boris Johnson sets an end date in place for isolation for those who test positive with coronavirus, a Fermanagh GP has urged people to take a cautious approach.

Dr. Laura McDonnell, a GP in Irvinestown, reacting to the latest moves from England said: “I feel it is important we continue to adopt a cautious approach due to the continuing high numbers of daily infections and the continued pressure on primary care and hospitals.”

As part of Boris Johnson’s plans, the need for isolating positive cases of coronavirus will end today and as part of the Prime Minister’s 'Living with Covid' plan for England, released on Monday, he revealed that free testing for the general public would end on April 1.

Speaking about the importance of testing, Dr. McDonnell said: “Testing and isolating positive cases is how we have managed this pandemic to date and as we move forward we need to maintain this focus.

She continued: "Introducing a fee for tests will only serve to widen health inequalities in that those who cannot afford testing and who cannot afford to take time off work, may choose not to test therefore potentially putting themselves and others at risk by spreading the virus.”

She emphasised the importance of diagnosing Covid-19 and said: “Diagnosing Covid-19 infection is also important when assessing patients who present in the weeks after infection with prolonged symptoms that are attributable to ‘Long Covid'. A diagnosis is important to enable these patients to access services and support to aid their recovery."

Northern Ireland Health Minister Robin Swann has warned he will not be rushed into making decisions around Covid-19 tests.

He was speaking after Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced an end to free universal symptomatic and asymptomatic testing for the general public in England from April 1.

On Tuesday evening Mr Swann emphasised he “will not be rushed into making decisions on Covid-19 testing based on timetables set elsewhere”.

“I have asked officials to draw up policy options based on an appropriate, proportionate approach to testing in NI.

“In the meantime, there will be no changes to the current approach,” he posted on Twitter.

“Looking ahead, testing will continue to have a role, especially in protecting the most vulnerable.

“Further discussions on funding will be required with the UK Government and NI Ministerial colleagues.”

No decisions have been taken on any changes to Test and Trace in Northern Ireland.

On Monday, Mr Swann also said: “My Department continues to keep all aspects of the Covid-19 test and trace programme in Northern Ireland under review to ensure it remains proportionate and effective.”