People in Bradford district urged to follow new COVID rules to halt spread of Omicron
Tracy Brabin, Mayor of West Yorkshire, said Prime Minister Boris Johnson's announcement of "Plan B" measures highlighted the urgent need for people to take up the vaccine and their booster when invited because "this is the best way to protect yourself, your loved ones and your community".
She added: "Here in West Yorkshire, our cases remain highest in younger people, so I would like to take this opportunity to make a plea for them to follow advice and get vaccinated too.
“I want to say a heartfelt thank-you to the those on the front line and working in the emergency services, including the scientists, doctors, nurses, carers supermarket staff. You have all made us proud and we appreciate everything you do and continue to do for us.
“I would also like to pay tribute the people of West Yorkshire and the sacrifices they have made throughout the past 20 months. I know that people have given up so much, but I would urge them to listen to these rules, and not to lose sight of what is important. We must continue to stick together and do what is right.
“I understand that this will cause anxiety among our businesses, especially those working in hospitality and the night-time economy. I will therefore be seeking urgent clarification from government on what - if any - support will be available.”
What are the latest rules?
The Prime Minister this week confirmed that England will move to Plan B, introducing:
- Work from home from Monday 13 December 2021
- Face masks in cinemas and theatres from Friday 10 December 2021
- From Wednesday 15 December 2021, the COVID-19 NHS pass will be required where large crowds gather, such as nightclubs and large sports venues
New national COVID measures introduced last week mean:
- Face coverings are compulsory in places like shops banks, post offices and hairdressers, as well as on public transport - even if you are fully vaccinated
- Anyone returning from another country must self-isolate until you have received a negative PCR test - with the first test needing to have been taken by the end of your second day back in the country.
- All contacts of suspected Omicron cases must self-isolate, regardless of their age or vaccination status. They will be contacted by NHS Test and Trace.
It is also important to continue to wash hands regularly, wear a face covering in crowded areas and making sure rooms are well ventilated.
Sarah Muckle, Director of Public Health for Bradford Council said: “We must make sure we take steps to limit the spread of this, and all strains of COVID, to protect our communities and limit the impact on the district.
If you or someone in your family is due a COVID vaccination, including the third booster, it is really important you get booked in now or visit the walk-in centre at the Broadway shopping centre.
Christmas risks
If you are planning meeting up with family and friends over the festive period, you can help protect the vulnerable by taking a Lateral Flow Test before you go.
People are at higher risk of catching or passing on COVID-19 in crowded and enclosed spaces, where there are more people who might be infectious and where there is limited fresh air. As such, businesses should continue to ensure they have adequate ventilation and people should wear face coverings if in crowded or enclosed spaces.
The guidance also recommends that people take a rapid lateral flow device (LFD) test before attending any higher-risk spaces.
Anyone over the age of 11 can access a free lateral flow test kit, which are designed for people without coronavirus symptoms who have not been told to self-isolate.
A maximum of two kits, which contain seven tests each, can be collected from some pharmacies, community centres and libraries, or ordered for home delivery via the Government website.
