In a bid to boost its tourism industry, the United Kingdom (UK) has lifted testing requirements for travellers who have been fully vaccinated against the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) from Friday. All such travelers will only need a Passenger Locator Form (PLF), according to a government statement issued on January 24.
The statement added: “Incoming arrivals who have not been confirmed as fully vaccinated are only required to undergo a pre-departure test and PCR test on or before the day after their arrival in the UK.”
Meanwhile, from 3 February, children aged 12 to 15 in the UK can prove their vaccination status or proof of previous infection via a digital NHS Covid pass for outbound travel. The government statement also said it would make it easier for children and their families to travel to countries that require vaccination status and proof of previous infection to enter, avoid isolation and enter premises or services.
The relaxation of travel rules can be attributed to the rollout of vaccines and boosters in the country.
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said last month: “We made the right decision at the right time and it has paid off thanks to the rollout of our vaccine and booster – allowing us to safely cancel the Nearly all Covid-19 travel restrictions for vaccinated travelers.”
The UK has recorded more than 18 million cases, 158,953 deaths and nearly 15.6 million recoveries since the onset of Covid-19.
The overall pandemic situation has improved in the country, which was hit hard earlier by the spread of the Omicron variant.
Britain recorded 66,638 cases and 206 deaths on Thursday. On Wednesday, 68,214 cases and 276 deaths were recorded. In the past seven days, the number of infections has dropped by 23%, and the number of deaths has dropped by 16% from the previous week.
Complete News Source : Hindustan Times