Digital Desk: UK eased curbs regarding using of masks and showing vaccination certificates while entering different places. England removed coronavirus restrictions intended to combat the Omicron form on Thursday, removing the need for masks in enclosed spaces and putting vaccine passports on hold.
The number of positive Covid-19 instances has dropped dramatically in the last two weeks and has plateaued in recent days, albeit remaining high.
After Prime Minister Boris Johnson warned of an impending "tidal wave" of Omicron, the UK government imposed the so-called "Plan B" limitations on December 8.
Face masks were required in all enclosed spaces, and immunization documentation was also required to enter venues like nightclubs, football fields, and large-scale events, which was unpopular. However, recently UK eased curbs on these restrictions.
There was widespread support for the easing of restrictions on the streets of London near St Paul's Cathedral, which comes after more than 37 million individuals received booster shots.
"I believe it's a fantastic idea," said Elizabeth Hynes, 71, an Irish immigrant who has lived in England for 47 years.
She stated of the posters within the underground station, "I was coming up the lifts here at St Paul's and I was looking at all the plays."
"And I thought to myself, 'How fantastic, it's like the old days.'
"It's almost as if we're returning to how London used to be, and you realize how much you've missed live theatre and amazing shows."
Julia, 28, from Spain, said it was time to "have a normal life".
Previously, limits were eased on July 19, known as "Freedom Day," but new rules were imposed as the Omicron wave approached.
Sajid Javid, the health minister, credited the country's booster programme for the lifting of limitations.
"Our vaccines, diagnostics, and antivirals assure that we have some of Europe's greatest defences," he stated. "This allows us to gently return to Plan A, restoring greater freedoms to this country."
Face masks will still be necessary for passengers on London's public transportation system as of Thursday, but they will no longer be required in secondary school classrooms.
Despite the lifting of restrictions, those who test positive for coronavirus must still self-isolate for a minimum of five days.
Leave A Comment