THE stars of Love Island will be forced to self-isolate for seven days in South Africa before heading into the villa – as Covid cases rise once again.
The winter edition of the show, hosted by Maya Jama for the first time, is kicking off in just over ten days’ time and bosses are determined to make sure everyone is safe.
Islanders always have to go into hiding before their grand entrance, but this year the rules are tougher than ever.
A source said: "Islanders will be put in quarantine for seven days ahead of the show starting as an extra Covid precautionary measure, and any crew going into the villa will have to test each time they enter - including presenter Maya Jama.
“The requirements have been put in place following the surge of Coronavirus cases in recent weeks."
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The cohort of sexy singletons will be flown out to South Africa, ready to begin filming any day now.
This week The Sun told how biomedical science student Tanya Manhenga, 22, is heading into the villa.
Alongside her studies, Tanya is a rising star in the world of influencing with over 11,000 followers on Instagram and has already worked with huge brands including boohoo, Simmi shoes and Ego footwear.
ITV has begun to ramp up promo, with a string of sizzling teaser trailers showing Maya astride a bucking bronco as she “takes love by the horns” as she takes over from Laura Whitmore.
The Sun exclusively revealed how the lovelorn wannabes would be staying in a luxurious mansion based in Millionaire’s row.
The sprawling property boasts an enormous pool set in a huge courtyard with a large sunbathing deck, while inside there are eight huge bedrooms.
Love Island bosses have hired armed guards to protect contestants and crews amid fears kidnap gangs will target them.
The crack security team will patrol the Ludus Magnus villa non-stop using night vision CCTV and alarm beams.
The villa is protected by high voltage electric gates, which will be fully manned, with trained guards posted on all the perimeters inside the property for protection.
The Sun has contacted Love Island for comment.
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