The first phase of COVID Plan B, as announced by the government yesterday, starts today, 10 December.
In response to the spread of the Omicron variant, the government has laid out a plan for the coming weeks, which includes mandatory face covering in most indoor settings, apart from the hospitality sector.
Starting from 13 December, the government is recommending people should work from home when they can, and from the 15 December, Covid passes showing a double vaccination or a negative Covid test, will be required to enter nightclubs and settings with large crowds. This covers:
- Unseated indoor areas with 500 or more people
- Unseated outdoor events with 4,000 or more people
- Any event with 10,000 or more attendees
Statement from Stephen Gunther, Director of Public Health, Walsall Council,
“The Plan B measures announced by the Government are needed and aim to help slow the spread of COVID-19. The new measures are important, as the UK Health Security Agency believes that the doubling rate of the Omicron variant is three days. This means that every three days, the number of COVID-19 cases in England will double.
“It is only a matter of time before the new variant arrives in Walsall. It is already prevalent in London and the South East and it is clear it will soon spread everywhere. With the virus spreading so fast, it means more people may require hospital treatment and this could overwhelm our local health services.
“We can reduce the number of cases, and pressure on the NHS, by ensuring as many people as possible have their first and second jabs and boosters. There are many places across Walsall where you can get your vaccine. You can either walk in or book an appointment online or by calling 119.
“Don’t forget the basics. If you have COVID-19 symptoms stay at home and book a PCR test and stay there until you have had your results, wash your hands frequently and use hand sanitiser when out and about, keep indoor spaces well ventilated. This means when you have friends or family to your home open your windows for just 10 minutes every hour as this will blow away the COVID-19 particles.
“I appreciate that everyone in Walsall has made huge sacrifices and I am asking you to continue to play your part. Please do all you can to keep yourself your family, friends and colleagues as safe as possible.”