With the Omicron variant(变种) spreading extremely rapidly, Brits are wondering what they can and can’t do this Christmas. Rules and guidance is constantly changing because of the rise of the near variant, leaving many people confused.
The UK government’s Plan B Covid restrictions were recently introduced to fight the rapid spread of the variant across Britain. Boris Johnson had hoped to hold off on carrying out curbs on people’s daily lives until January to allow as normal a Christmas as possible. But the new variant has since forced him to act, urging Brits to get their booster vaccinations(加强针) done as soon as possible, to reduce the spread of Omicron.
Christmas has not been cancelled however, and Christmas parties are still allowed to be held. The rules are not the same for the four UK nations and in Scotland people have been asked to restrict social contact to one other household for Christmas. In Wales, nightclubs will be closed from December 27 and in Northern Ireland, indoor gatherings should have no more than 30 people. In England and Wales there are no limit on social interactions with friends and family during the festival, but ministers have advised people to take a Lateral Flow test before gathering and mixing with others to ensure the risk of Covid is reduced.
Plan C is reportedly already being drawn to slow down the spread of Omicron. This could see the reintroduction of table service at pubs and restaurants and the requirement for vaccine passports in smaller venues. Mask wearing has been extended to cover most public venues such as theatres and cinemas. And face coverings will be required on public transport and many public places. The government said: “Face coverings have low economic costs and can be effective in reducing transmission in public and community settings.” You are not expected to wear a mask while eating or drinking, but it is advised you wear one in “crowded and enclosed spaces where you may come into contact with other people you do not normally meet”.
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