HMGoG is urging people to exercise caution now that 13 cases of the Omicron variant have been detected in Gibraltar.

The Government will continue to follow the advice of Director of Public Health and monitor the evolving situation. People are urged to be sensible, take up the offer of a booster shot, and reduce social mixing in the run up to Christmas in order to reduce the spread of the Omicron variant within our community. 

The Director of Public Health, Helen Carter, said: “It is extremely important for people to remain vigilant. I urge people to wear masks in enclosed and crowded places, practice social distancing where possible, and continue to wash their hands. These are known practices that will help us reduce the curb of this variant”.

“Additionally, the most important defence against this variant is to get boosted. The vaccine is available for both residents and cross-frontier workers. However, my message, especially to residents in Gibraltar, if we want to take control of the spread in our population, do not wait to be personally called for an appointment. The Children’s PCC is open all week offering a drop-in service from 9am-8pm. Do not delay your booster until after the Festive Season, as it could be too late by then. 

The Chief Minister, Fabian Picardo, said: “It is now clear that the Omicron variant is spreading throughout our community. We must remain cautious now, to avoid further restrictions in the run up to Christmas.

“The only way we can combat this variant is to get your booster shot this week. The GHA has set up the mammoth task of vaccinating as many people as possible this week. There are clinics available to you. Do not delay your booster shot; it could be a matter of life or death. In such a close-knit community, we must use all the tools available to protect the most vulnerable and our way of life.

ENDS