In an effort to slow the spread of the new Omicron variant – a number of additional measures are being rolled out in England from today (Tuesday 30 November)
Face coverings – These are once again required on public transport, in shops and supermarkets and other spaces such as banks, post offices, travel agents, hairdressers, beauticians and takeaways, unless people are medically exempt.
A full list of places where face coverings should be worn can be found on Gov.uk
People are also strongly advised to wear masks or coverings in crowded spaces – and they should always be worn appropriately – covering both the nose and mouth.
School children in Year 7 and above, will also need to wear them in communal areas.
Test and Trace – People identified as being close contacts of suspected cases of the Omicron variant will now need to self-isolate for 10 days – even if they are fully vaccinated.
International travel – People arriving in the UK from abroad will have to take a day two PCR test and self-isolate until they receive a negative result.
If people are arriving from a red list country they must continue to quarantine in a managed hotel and take two COVID-19 tests – even if they are fully vaccinated.
In addition to these extra measures being rolled out, good infection control, regular testing and vaccination remains our best defence in the fight against coronavirus.
Infection control – Hand washing and using a tissue when coughing or sneezing is something everyone can easily do, alongside opening windows to create good air flow.
Testing – People without symptoms should keep testing regularly using rapid Covid tests – twice weekly is advisable.
If you have Covid symptoms – however mild – you should book a PCR test and isolate at home until you have your result.
Vaccination – The data shows how effective and safe the vaccine is, so everyone who is eligible should get fully vaccinated as soon as possible– regardless of whether they’ve had Covid before.
People should also have their booster dose when they are eligible, as protection from the original vaccine may reduce over time.
Details of how to get your vaccine can be found at https://www.liverpoolccg.nhs.uk/drop-in-vaccination
