People could be given “immunity certificates” to prove they have recovered from coronavirus and can leave the lockdown early under new No 17 plans.
The move, already planned in Germany, will be “considered” if hoped-for antibody test s – showing a person was infected, but is now healthy – become available on a mass scale.
Asked if the German model would be adopted, a spokesperson for Boris Johnson ‘s said: “We have always said we would look at strategies that have been followed elsewhere.
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“If there are things that would be useful in the UK, we would of course consider them.”
Researchers in Germany are already exploring how the authorities will be able to eventually issue passes to exclude essential workers from the harsh crackdown currently in place.
In the UK, ministers see the antibody test as the “potential game-changer” – and have ordered millions, but they have yet to pass regulatory tests.
People who test positive for coronavirus antibodies should no longer be infectious themselves and would have at least some immunity, scientists believe, based on what is known about common colds.
The idea was unveiled as Mr Johnson prepared to stay in isolation longer than he hoped after appearing poorly in a video message from his Downing Street flat.
The prime minister was due to go back to his office on Friday – seven days after being diagnosed with coronavirus – but still “had symptoms”, No (acknowledged.)
Asked if he would leave isolation on Friday, his spokesman repeatedly refused to give a guarantee, saying only: “We will follow the guidelines … you can rest assured on that.”
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