01/12/21 11:59pm Search form Search Search Home News New rules on masks as covid booster rollout extended New rules on masks as covid booster rollout extended The risks of coronavirus remain high. To keep everyone safe, please stay cautious. Get the latest information about coronavirus. Don't delay, get your Covid jabs as soon as you're eligible. That's the message from our Director of Public Health Mark Adams, as the Government announces an extension of the booster vaccination programme and new rules on face coverings. Everyone over the age of 18 will be invited for a booster dose in the coming months, while the recommended gap between the second dose and the booster is being cut to three months. And from today, masks must be worn in settings including shops and on public transport, as scientists assess the risk of a concerning new Covid variant, Omicron. Except for those medically exempt, masks must now be worn in: • Shops and supermarkets • Buses and trains • Hairdressers, tattoo studios and salons • Post offices and banks • Estate agents • Vet surgeries • Takeaways • Taxis • Driving lessons and tests The Government has also "strongly advised" secondary school pupils to wear masks in communal areas in school. Staff and visitors at all schools and childcare settings are also encouraged to cover their mouths and nose. However, the new mandate does not extend to hospitality venues like pubs, restaurants and nightclubs. Those visiting gyms, theatres and cinemas are also not required to wear a mask in law. However, Government guidance has always recommended that people wear a face covering in enclosed public spaces. South Tees Joint Director of Public Health Mark Adams said: "The emergence of the Omicron variant has brought the pandemic back into sharp focus, but the reality is that Covid has never gone away. "As a country we have started to learn to live with the virus and it's vital we now take further precautions while a more complete picture is built up on the threat of the new variant. "I realise the new variant will cause concern, but over the past year we have shown we can enjoy a level of normality while being mindful of the risks the virus poses. The bottom line is we can't afford to ignore Covid. "Vaccination remains our strongest protection against the virus and I'd again urge people to come forward as soon as they are eligible for each dose. Don't delay, book your slots or head for a walk-in clinic. Being jabbed not only protects you, but also those more vulnerable who you come into contact with. "The changes that came into force this week are a necessary precaution. Unless you're exempt, wearing a face covering on public transport and in enclosed public spaces is a simple, selfless act that can help keep people safe across our communities. And masks in communal areas of secondary schools makes absolute sense and is something we've already been advising throughout Middlesbrough and Redcar and Cleveland. "I'd continue to encourage people to take regular lateral flow tests that can identify cases that would have otherwise gone undetected. "Anyone who develops symptoms must self-isolate and book a PCR test online or by calling 119." Latest News Covid Champions and NHS share award for pandemic efforts The strength and solidarity of Middlesbrough's diverse communities during the Covid-19 pandemic has been recognised at a celebratory awards event. All aboard for a delightful December at the Dorman! It will be a December to remember at the Dorman Museum this year as families can buckle up and get ready to enjoy a whole month of festive fun. New rules on masks as covid booster rollout extended Don't delay, get your Covid jabs as soon as you're eligible. more news A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z Contact us Privacy policy Data protection Staff Portal Accessibility statement Cookie settings We use necessary cookies to give you the best experience on our website. We'd also like to set optional analytics cookies to help us improve it. We won't set optional cookies unless you accept, you can find more information on our privacy page. OK, I agree Reject