The government has decided to move to Plan B of their Autumn
and Winter COVID Plan.
These measures are to combat the new Omicron Variant. The Variant has a number of mutations that have caused concerns amongst scientists.
Sadly, it is clear that Omicron has a very high growth rate and is spreading rapidly. There are currently 568 cases, but with a doubling time that could be as little as 2.5 to 3 days. The government has to act on the medical advice it receives.
Clearly, we all hope that the fears about Omicron will not be realised, but the strong medical advice is that, along with travel bans and other measures, the Plan B approach will slow the spread and protect both the public and our NHS.
The following additional measures have been announced:
- An extension of self-isolation rules for all contacts of confirmed Covid cases, not just Omicron as is currently the case. An offer of daily testing to replace contact self -isolation will be offered.
- Mask mandates will be extended to more indoor settings, such as cinemas and theatres.
- A return of work-from-home guidance will come back. The guidance comes into place on Monday 13th December.
- An introduction of Covid certification for large venues. From Wednesday 15 December people will need to show their NHS Covid Pass - or a negative lateral flow test - to gain entry to nightclubs, indoor seated venues with more than 500 people, unseated outdoor venues with more than 4,000 people and any venue with more than 10,000 people.
In addition, the government's scientific advisors have
recommended the booster jab is extended to ALL adults over 18, three months
after their second jab. The government has committed to offering all adults a
booster jab by the end of January.
Those aged 12 to 15 in England are to be offered a second dose of a Covid vaccine 12 weeks after their first jab.
The single biggest thing you can do to keep yourself, your family and friends safe is to get boosted.
LINKS:
NHS National Vaccination Booking System
Latest Government COVID guidance