Omicron Variant: The UK government has said that it will be mandatory to wear masks in shops and public transport in the country from Tuesday. This step has been taken under strict restrictions after two cases of Omicron form of Kovid-19 were reported in the country. Health Minister Sajid Javed said that mandatory PCR testing for all foreign visitors to the UK will also be implemented as soon as possible. The minister emphasized that he hopes the all-new measures will give scientists more time to analyze the infectivity and vaccine-resistance levels of the Omicron form.
people feared to impose lockdown
In other parts of the UK, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, wearing masks is already mandatory on public transport and in many places. The opposition Labor Party has expressed concern that the new rules are not enough to implement the government’s so-called Plan-B. At the same time, the new steps have raised the possibility of imposing a lockdown during Christmas this time too, but both the Prime Minister and the Health Minister have tried to ignore those concerns. Both have emphasized that celebrations in 2021 will be better than 2020. Health Minister Sajid Javed said, "People should continue with their plans for Christmas as normal, I think we will celebrate Christmas festival with full enthusiasm."
New variants have been reported in many countries
The rapid spread of the Omicron form of COVID-19 is expected to partially reduce the safety of the vaccine. This pattern was detected earlier this week in South Africa. It has been cited as a cause of concern by the World Health Organization (WHO). Cases have been reported in Belgium, Israel, Hong Kong and Europe. Also, two cases have been reported in the UK.
announced plans to boost booster campaign
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