Targeted Covid testing in Oxfordshire after case of Omicron variant confirmed

Targeted Covid-19 testing is to be rolled out in Oxfordshire after a case of the Omicron variant was confirmed.

The confirmed case is a person in West Oxfordshire, and the county council has said there are two highly probable cases in Oxford - members of Oxford University which are believed to be linked.

All three individuals are now self-isolating and their close contacts have been informed and asked to self-isolate according to county council bosses.

Oxfordshire County Council is working closely with the UKHSA and the University to identify any further cases through targeted testing.

Extra health measures have been put in place at Oxford University in response to the probable cases, including additional COVID-19 testing, as well as making face coverings mandated in libraries.

Masks are also being encouraged in most indoor settings including during in-person teaching.

Students are being asked to take two LFD tests before leaving Oxford for the Christmas break, and to self-isolate if they test positive. All staff and students are also being encouraged to follow all existing government and University health guidance.

Ansaf Azhar, Oxfordshire County Council’s Director of Public Health said, "Robust contact tracing has taken place following the identification of three cases in the county. We have taken swift action so that we can understand if the new variant has spread and break the chain of transmission as quickly as possible. I’d like to thank our partners at the UKHSA and the University for all their help.

“While this work takes place, it is important that everyone continues to take sensible precautions: get a PCR test if you have symptoms, self-isolate when asked, wear a face covering in crowded and enclosed spaces, ventilate rooms, and get your vaccine and booster as soon as you can. 

“Getting vaccinated still remains the best way to reduce the chance of becoming severely ill with COVID-19, and boosters will soon become available to everyone aged 18 or over.

“I would urge everyone to play their part to keep their communities safe. If you are contacted by NHS Test and Trace, please follow their instructions about testing and self-isolating.

“I would also like to remind people that if you come into contact with someone who has the Omicron variant, you must isolate for ten days - regardless of your vaccination status.”

Councillor Louise Upton, Oxford City Council Cabinet Member for a Safer, Healthier Oxford said, "The news that we have a confirmed case of Omicron is a reminder to us all to follow the covid rules. Wear a mask on public transport and in shops, keep testing at home, and isolate if you have any symptoms or are contacted by test and trace.

“We have restarted our covid secure team patrols in the city centre, to help businesses and customers continue to enjoy Oxford safely.

“The new rules mean you must isolate if asked by test and trace, even if you’re double vaccinated. We know self-isolating creates practical problems around shopping, money, caring responsibilities, and the loneliness of self-isolation. For those that can’t ask family and friends for help, we and our partners are here to support you. Please get in touch if you need our help”