The First Minister is urging everyone to have their COVID-19 booster vaccine as he warned Wales is facing a new wave of infections caused by the Omicron variant.
The First Minister will say, at his regular 21-day review press conference, to be held on Friday (December 10 2021), that even though only a handful of cases of Omicron have so far been confirmed in Wales, we must be prepared for cases to rise quickly and sharply.
Omicron was first identified in South Africa just over two weeks ago. It has quickly spread around the world, including to the UK. There is now widespread community transmission in many parts of England and Scotland.
There are a number of other measures people can take to help protect themselves from coronavirus, including the new Omicron variant.
The First Minister will ask people to take regular lateral flow tests before going out and to wear face coverings in all public places to help protect people in the lead up to Christmas.
Wales will remain at alert level zero after the latest review of the COVID regulations.
However, with the spread of the Omicron variant, the Welsh Government is strongly advising:
- People flow before they go. This means taking a lateral flow test before going out – whether that’s to a Christmas party; Christmas shopping; visiting friends or family; going to any crowded or busy place or before travelling.
- If the test is positive, don’t go out. Arrange for a PCR test and self-isolate.
- People to wear face coverings in pubs and restaurants, when they aren’t eating or drinking. Everyone must wear face coverings in most other indoor public places, in accordance with the law, including in cinemas and theatres.
For further information visit: Written Statement: Review of the Health Protection (Coronavirus Restriction) (No.5) (Wales) Regulations 2020