COVID Omricon Variant: UK mandates all travellers to take PCR test

The United Kingdom has introduced a new rule as part of measures to contain the spread of the new variant of Coronavirus, Omicron, said to be a highly infectious variant.

Two cases have been recorded in the UK already.

According to a new directive by the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, all travellers to the UK will have to take a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test by the end of the second day of their arrival.

He said travellers must self-isolate until they receive a negative test result.

“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 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 states

The World Health Organisation (WHO) described Omicron as a “variant of concern”, calling on global leaders to take action to contain its spread.