Government residential and day care services for the elderly and vulnerable are the latest victim of the coronavirus threat.

They have been closed to all non-essential visitors.

The move came into force just before midnight last night (Thursday).

Chief Minister Howard Quayle made the announcement at a press briefing on Wednesday.

He told reporters: ’Today we have made the difficult decision that all residential services directly provided by adult social care will close to non-essential visitors.

’We don’t want to stop these important community links but we need to ensure vulnerable people are protected.’

The move affects the following services:

â?¢ Resource centres for older people - Southlands (Port St Mary), Reayrt Ny Baie (Douglas) and Cummal Mooar (Ramsey)

â?¢ Dementia care and support services - Thie Meanagh (including Sweetbriar) Douglas, Gansey Unit (Port St Mary), Langness Unit (Port St Mary) and Reayrt Skyal (Ramsey)

â?¢ All learning disability residential community homes

â?¢ Day services for older people (Douglas, Onchan, Ramsey, Peel and Port St Mary)

â?¢ Dementia day care services (Douglas, Ramsey and Port St Mary).

self-isolation

Meanwhile, the government has moved to clarify the rules of self-isolation.

Anyone arriving in the Isle of Man, anyone displaying symptoms or anyone living with someone displaying symptoms of the coronavirus must stay at home.

You cannot go to work or school, go to public areas, or attend public gatherings.

You must not use public transport or taxis, go to the shops to buy food or other essentials or invite guests into your home.

But if you are in self-isolation you can go outside into your garden.

If you need help buying groceries or other shopping, picking up medication or walking a dog you will need to ask friends or relatives.

Everyone else should consider social distancing and trying to minimise contact with other people.

This means spending less time in public places, working from home where possible and avoiding unnecessary travel.

This advice is especially important for those who are aged 70 and over or pregnant or with an underlying health condition.

Social housing tenants who are unable to pay their rent as a result of the coronavirus pandemic should notify the housing office as soon as possible. For those that are self-isolating and have an appointment booked with the housing or repairs team, contact the housing office on 685955.