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Government publishes new Covid-19 measures for nurseries, childminders and schools amid Omicron concern

The Government has announced additional safety measures for early years settings and schools to prevent the spread of the new Coronavirus Omicron variant.
The new guidance reminds early years settings and schools to use a lateral flow test twice a week PHOTO Adobe Stock
The new guidance reminds early years settings and schools to use a lateral flow test twice a week PHOTO Adobe Stock

It comes after two people tested positive for the Omicron variant, a variant of concern originating from South Africa, over the weekend. Since then, additional cases have been identified in Scotland and one in Westminster, London, however the person has since left the country.

Earlier today, Essex County Council also confirmed that 'following further contact tracing of the known Omicron Covid-19 case in Brentwood, it has been confirmed that there is a link to Larchwood Primary School based in Pilgrims Hatch.'

Most of the guidance, particularly for early years settings, has not changed. The only changes that apply to childcare providers and primary schools are:

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