New covid guidelines will require Britons to wear facemasks again as a compulsory measure in light of the latest Omicron variant, Business in the News reports.
According to the latest update from Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, this will mean people will be required to wear facemasks in public including restaurants, communal areas, retailers and on public transport.
The latest Omicron variant has originated in Southern Africa and there have been reported cases in Europe. Whilst the full symptoms and extent of the variant are not confirmed, it has been said that it is less susceptible to existing covid jabs and inoculations.
Facemasks rules were relaxed during the summer when covid cases eased and the UK practically reopened to the general public. Whilst many continued to wear facemasks, this was not a compulsory measure, although the public is still encouraged to stand at least 6 feet away from another person, use hand sanitizers and hand wash stations where possible.
In schools, pupils will be required to wear facemasks in communal areas, unless they are exempt.
Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi said: “The news of a new variant – the so-called Omicron variant – will have understandably caused concern for people across our country, including our teachers, wider education and childcare staff, parents, pupils and students.
“We are already taking targeted and proportionate action as a precaution while we find out more information about the new variant.”
He said the government will “continue to prioritise children’s and young people’s education and wellbeing” to make sure they can “continue to benefit from classroom teaching.”
Since lockdown measures began in the UK in March 2020, the country and its businesses have adapted and taken important precautions to limit the spread of the disease. From wearing facemasks, gloves, hand sanitizer and socially distancing, many communal areas or places of interest have made changes to keep up with protocols.
In restaurants, offices and gyms, you can often find protective screens between tables, treadmills or stations, with alcohol gel or hand stations in the entrances for any customers. Some outlets have upgraded their surfaces with more hygienic solutions, often mirroring those of hospitals. With more wipeable panels and hygienic surfaces, it is easier to clean away germs and with surfaces built under high pressure, they will typically gather less bacteria.