From 30 November for at least three weeks, Government have introduced temporary measures to respond to the emergence of UK cases of the new variant of COVID-19, Omicron.
The Government have done this to try to slow the spread of the new variant in the UK while work is done to find out as much as possible about the variant.
In a temporary measure, Government have introduced three key aspects for businesses. From 30 November for at least three weeks:
- Face coverings are mandatory to wear on public transport and in retail premises, unless you are exempt. This applies to most high street premises (shops, shopping centres, post offices, banks, personal care and beauty treatment premises, travel agents, takeaways etc)
- All arrivals into the UK from abroad need to take a PCR test by the end of day 2, and must self-isolate until a negative result is received
- All contacts of those with the suspected variant, Omicron, must self-isolate for 10 days, regardless of vaccination status. These will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace.
Lateral Flow Test kits can quickly detect coronavirus in people who are not displaying symptoms. They provide a result within half an hour, and are available throughout North East Lincolnshire. A list of locations are available on Lft.nelincs.gov.uk.
Everyone over the age of 16 can order a test, collect a home test kit or book an appointment for assisted testing. If you have coronavirus symptoms, you must book a PCR test www.gov.uk/get-coronavirus-test.
Remember, while there are cases of COVID-19 about, there’s still a risk you can catch it or pass it on, even if you’re fully vaccinated or you’ve had the virus before.
The risk of COVID-19 and flu this winter is severe. Vaccines are our best protection. Find out more about the vaccines at NHS.UK.
Remember:
- get vaccinated, including going for your booster when it’s due
- meet people outside if possible
- open doors and windows to let fresh air in when meeting people inside
- limit the number of people you meet and avoid crowds
- wear a face covering when it’s hard to stay away from other people
- test regularly to protect yourself and your loved ones
- wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitiser regularly
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