Boris Johnson, the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, has announced new measures in response to the discovery of a new coronavirus variant.
In the United Kingdom, two cases of Omicron, a highly infectious strain of the virus, have been reported.
According to Johnson, all visitors to the UK will be required to take a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test by the end of the second day.
Travellers must self-isolate until they receive a negative test result.
“All contacts of suspected Omicron cases must self-isolate for 10 days, regardless of their vaccination status. They will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace.
“Face coverings will become compulsory on public transport and in shops – not including hospitality.
“The JCVI (Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation) will consider giving boosters to a wider age group, as well as reducing the gap between the second dose and booster,” the new rule stated.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has described Omicron as a “variant of concern”, calling on global leaders to take action to contain its spread.