6 Additional Omicron Infection Cases in UK... "Some Have No Travel History"

On the 28th (local time), Regent Street, a bustling area in London, UK, was filled with citizens, with only some wearing masks. As new cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) variant 'Omicron' have been confirmed in the UK and other countries around the world, the UK government announced that starting from the 30th, wearing masks on public transportation will be mandatory again. [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunju Lee] Six additional cases of the new COVID-19 variant Omicron have been reported in the UK.

According to local UK media, Scottish authorities announced on the 29th (local time) that two cases were confirmed near Glasgow and four cases in Lanarkshire. This brings the total number of Omicron cases to nine.

Some of these cases have no travel history, prompting health authorities to trace their movements.

A Scottish official said in an interview with a foreign media outlet, "This means Omicron is already spreading in the community," but added, "It is still too early to advise changing Christmas plans."

The UK plans to expand booster vaccinations in response to Omicron. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has requested the UK Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation to urgently review shortening the vaccination interval for those under 40.

Government officials and scientists stated that although existing COVID-19 vaccines may be less effective against Omicron, they still provide protection and reduce hospitalizations and deaths.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.