Health leaders in Herefordshire are urging residents and visitors to take the new Covid measures seriously as stronger rules begin.
From today, wearing face masks in shops and on public transport becomes compulsory.
Pupils, staff and visitors to secondary schools and childcare settings are being “strongly advised” to wear face masks in communal areas.
Schools may contact parents about their specific arrangements.
The government has also added more countries to the UK red list. Anyone now arriving in England who has been in a red-listed country in the previous 10 days must isolate at a managed quarantine hotel. There are also testing requirements for all international arrivals who must take a Day 2 PCR test and self-isolate until they receive a negative result.
Dr Rebecca Howell-Jones, acting director of public health for Herefordshire Council, says: “Coronavirus is not going away and we are now facing the additional challenge of a new variant, Omicron. However, there are actions we can each take to help protect ourselves, our families and Herefordshire from Covid-19, and other infections, this winter.”
“I would ask everyone to follow the advice including testing regularly and getting vaccinated. If you are eligible for a booster dose book online (if there are no slots check back as more regularly become available). And remember, to help prevent the spread of Covid-19 hands, face, space, ventilation – Regularly wash your hands, wear face coverings, keep your distance from others and ensure indoor spaces are well ventilated.”