Secretary of State for Health and Social Care Sajid Javid MP announced yesterday in a statement to Parliament that as a precaution against the spread of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 - which is believed to be highly contagious and perhaps also to produce more severe illness - the following new requirements for all persons entering the UK from any other country, with the sole exception of the Republic of Ireland:

• Prior to travel to the UK, book a PCR test to be taken within 2 days of entering the UK.
• Test must be bought privately from a government-approved list of providers.
• Self-isolate until receiving a negative test result.
• These requirements became effective as of 0400 UTC today 30 November 2021 and apply regardless of vaccination status.

Mr. Javid said yesterday that 5 cases of the Omicron variant had been confirmed in England, and 6 in Scotland.

Additional measures being taken to slow the spread of the Omicron variant in the UK include:

• Self-isolation for 10 days is required for close contacts of anyone testing positive with a suspected case of Omicron, regardless of vaccination status.
• Face coverings are required in shops and on public transport, with limited medical exceptions.

The current UK vaccination program will be accelerated, with priority to be given to seniors and at-risk individuals over age 16.