The First Minister will today set out a two-phase plan to respond to the current delta variant and the new, fast-moving, easily-transmissible omicron variant, which is expected to be the dominant form of the virus in the UK by the end of the month.
The Welsh Government is issuing strong guidance to support people across Wales through the Christmas period.
To stay safe in the run-up to Christmas, WG strongly advises everyone follows these simple measures:
- Get vaccinated – and if you have had your booster appointment, please make this your priority.
- If you are going out, going Christmas shopping or visiting people – flow before you go. Take a lateral flow test. If it’s positive – do not go out.
- Meeting outdoors is better than indoors. If you are meeting indoors make sure it is well ventilated.
- Space out any socialising –please leave at least a day between events.
- Do not forget about social distancing, wearing a face covering and washing your hands.
To reduce the number of contacts between people, the coronavirus regulations will be amended to place a legal duty on employers to allow their employees to work from home if possible, and on employees to do so where practicable.
Wales will then introduce new restrictions, including for businesses and services – from 27 December. This will include a 2m rule on social distancing in offices and putting extra measures in place to protect customers and staff, such as one-way systems and physical barriers.
Nightclubs will also close.
Financial support of up to £60m will be available to businesses materially affected by these new restrictions. Further details about this support will be available on the Business Wales website.