Action to protect everyone against the Omicron variant

The government has announced that from Today, new measures will come into force to reduce the spread of COVID-19, taking precautionary steps to bolster our wall of defence against the virus.

• The Omicron variant is a stark reminder that we are not yet out of this pandemic, and we must take steps to protect the gains we have made in our fight against the virus. 
• That is why the government has announced new measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19 – from Tuesday 30th November, all contacts of suspected Omicron cases must by law self-isolate for 10 days, face coverings will become compulsory in shops and on public transport, and all fully vaccinated international arrivals must take a PCR test on or before day 2 and self-isolate until they receive a negative result.  
• Under the UK presidency Britain will also be convening an urgent meeting of G7 health ministers today to discuss the developments and international cooperation on Omicron.
• Vaccines remain our most effective tool against COVID-19 and everyone who is eligible is urged to come forward for their booster jab.