Council supports stronger Covid measures

Herefordshire’s health leaders are urging residents and visitors to take the new Covid measures seriously as stronger rules begin across England.

From today, wearing face masks in shops and on public transport becomes compulsory.

Secondary schools and childcare settings

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.

Travel

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.

Full information about travel to England from another country during coronavirus can be found on the government’s coronavirus webpage.

Isolation for close contacts of omicron COVID-19 cases

Close contacts of suspected or confirmed cases of Omicron variant will be required to self-isolate for 10 days even if vaccinated or under 18 years. If you are informed by NHS test and trace that you need to isolate and are not exempt, you must self-isolate.

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.”