The four things you need to know about the new COVID-19 rules

 

Dr Melanie Smith, Brent Public Health Director

On Wednesday, the Government announced that it is introducing new rules to try and slow the spread of Omicron, a variant of concern which spreads much more quickly than other strains we have seen. Here are the four big things you need to know.

1. Full vaccination offers the best protection we have against the virus, including Omicron. With these rule changes, the government is trying to give people more time to get the protection of booster vaccinations, or first and second vaccines for those who haven’t got theirs yet. The COVID-19 vaccine is safe, effective and free, so I urge you to get yours. Anyone aged over 40 who had their second jab more than three months ago can book a booster now. The booster helps give you longer-term protection against getting seriously ill from COVID-19.
2. Work from home if you can. From Monday 13 December, the Government is advising those who can to work from home.
3. From today Friday (10 Dec), wear a face covering in most indoor public venues. The government is making this compulsory again, except for those under 11 years or with an exemption, extending it from just public transport and shops to almost all indoor spaces including theatres and cinemas. According to the latest research, masks can block up to 80% of the virus spreading into the air from infected people, and also protect wearers from breathing in up to 50% of particles.
4. The NHS Covid Pass on the NHS App is set to become mandatory for entry into nightclubs and other places where large crowds gather from Wednesday 15 December.

Please read on for more details about where to get your vaccine or to take a test in your area. If we work together and take precautions we will be in a better place to keep each other safe over the winter and in light of this new threat.

Brent Council