Essex County Council have released the following statement:
We can confirm that a single case involving the new COVID-19 Variant of Concern (B.1.1.529), Omicron, has been identified in Brentwood. This is linked to a single case from Nottingham involving international travel to Southern Africa.
We are working with regional and local public health officers who are assessing the situation. All close contacts of these individuals will be followed up and requested to isolate and get tested.
The individuals who have so far tested positive, as well as all members of their households, are being re-tested and have been told to self-isolate while contact tracing is underway.
While this work takes place, it is important that everyone takes sensible precautions – get a PCR test if you have symptoms, isolate when asked, wear a face covering in crowded and enclosed spaces, ventilate rooms, get your vaccine and boosters as soon as you can.”
The Prime Minister's statement regarding the B.1.1.529 variant can be found here.
Importantly, anyone who enters the UK must now take a PCR test by the end of the second day after their arrival, and to self-isolate until they have a negative result. All contacts of those who test positive with a suspected case of the B.1.1.529 variant must self-isolate for ten days, regardless of vaccination status. Face coverings will become compulsory on public transport and in certain settings.
The measures that are being introduced are temporary and precautionary - the Government will review them in three weeks.
The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care's statement regarding the B.1.1.529 variant can be found here.
