THE more than 27 per cent of people in Bradford still completely unvaccinated against Covid are being urged to get their jabs as soon as possible following the discovery of the Omicron variant.

The variant still hasn't made its way to Bradford, with no confirmed cases yet, but people are being asked to protect themselves by wearing masks and getting vaccinated.

The new variant, first seen in southern Africa, is thought to be more resistant to the current Covid-19 vaccine.

As a result of its discovery, travel bans have been brought in by the UK Government, along with a legal requirement to wear face coverings in shops and on public transport, and new testing rules for people returning from overseas.

Echoing national calls for people to take more caution in their daily lives, Bradford Council's director of public health Sarah Muckle is urging people to follow the guidance and keep themselves and those around them safe.

Currently more than one in four (27.5 per cent) people aged 12 and over in the Bradford district remain completely unvaccinated against Covid-19.

Sarah Muckle said: "“We must make sure we take steps to limit the spread of this, and all strains of Covid, to protect our communities and limit the impact on the district.

“If you or someone in your family is due a Covid vaccination, including the third booster, it is really important you get booked in now or visit the walk-in centre at the Broadway shopping centre.

“Everyone also needs to follow the new national Covid guidance introduced this week. Unless you have a genuine exemption, face coverings are compulsory in places like shops banks, post offices and hairdressers, as well as on public transport - even if you are fully vaccinated.

“Anyone returning from another country must self-isolate until you have received a negative PCR test - with the first test needing to have been taken by the end of your second day back in the country.”

“We also all need to continue to wash our hands regularly, wearing a face covering in crowded areas and making sure rooms are ventilated.”

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