UK to Lift Mask Mandates and Vaccine Passes Starting Next Week

Boris Johnson, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom [Image source=Yonhap News]

The UK is significantly easing COVID-19 restrictions such as mask-wearing and vaccine passports.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced on the 19th (local time) that the COVID-19 'Plan B' will end next week.

Plan B included indoor mask mandates, recommendations for remote work, and the use of vaccine passports at large venues.

However, self-isolation for COVID-19 positive cases will remain in place.

Prime Minister Johnson said that although self-isolation for positive cases remains, the time when it will be removed is approaching.

He also explained that scientists believe the peak of the Omicron variant wave has passed.

The UK reported over 90,000 new COVID-19 cases in a single day yesterday.