ON Saturday November 27, the Prime Minister confirmed new temporary and precautionary measures following the emergence of the Omicron variant in the UK.
The super-strain was officially named a "variant of concern" by the WHO, as cases are now cropping up across Europe.
1
Travel rules are already in place following concerns of the Omicron strain spreading Credit: EPA When do the new travel rules start?
Travel restrictions have already been implemented to slow the spread of the variant and protect our borders.
From 04:00am Sunday November 28, South Africa, Botswana, Lesostho, Eswatini, Zimbabwe and Namibi, Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia, and Angola have been added to the UK’s travel red list.
Anyone arriving from these destinations will need to quarantine in a government-approved hotel for 10 days at a cost of ￡2,285.
Other targeted measures will be introduced from next week as a precaution to slow down the spread of the variant while experts gather more information.
These are:
All international arrivals must take a Day 2 PCR test and self-isolate until they receive a negative result. All contacts of suspected Omicron cases must self-isolate, regardless of their vaccination status. They will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace. Face coverings will be made compulsory in shops and on public transport from Monday November 29. All hospitality settings will be exempt.
According to the Health Secretary, new advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) is expected "imminently" on whether boosters should be extended to all over-18s, whether the waiting time before a booster jab should be reduced and if second doses should be offered to 12-15 year olds in light of the new variant.
Mr Javid told The Andrew Marr Show on the BBC: "I've also asked the NHS to prepare for much greater capacity in our vaccination programme".
Most read in UK News
OUTBREAK FEARS Twickenham rugby match may have been Omicron superspreader event
FACE IT Kids in Year 7 and above told to wear face masks at school to stop Omicron spread
SOME MIGHT SLEIGH Snow traps 60 drinkers including Oasis tribute in pub for THIRD night
Latest
COVID CHAOS UK hit by THIRD Omicron case as traveller from southern Africa tests positive
FAMILY AGONY Dad-of-eight fighting for life in Covid coma as family 'broken beyond words'
TIME OFF Schools may have to break up early for Christmas after surge in Covid cases
When do I need to take a PCR test to travel?
Anyone who enters the UK from abroad will now be required to take a PCR test and self-isolate until they get a negative result.
It is hoped the measures will buy scientists time to learn more about the Omicron variant.
But there are fears it will also affect the recovery of the aviation industry that has already been hit hard by the coronavirus pandemic.