Welsh Government have made a swift change to covid rules in response to the new omicron variant. 

The cabinet has brought in the same measures as the rest of the UK and they continue to meet this evening and tomorrow to monitor the situation and decide if further action is needed.

Eluned Morgan MS, Minister for Health and Social Services said:

"We are taking further immediate action to move four more south African countries onto the red list for travel following the identification of the new coronavirus variant, which may be capable of evading the protection provided by vaccines.

"The Omnicron variant (also called B.1.1.529) has been linked to Angola, Malawi, Mozambique and Zambia. These countries have moved onto the red list from 4.00am, Sunday 28 November 2021.   

"This means travellers from these destinations will not be permitted to enter Wales but must enter through a port of entry in England or Scotland and go into a managed quarantine facility for 10 days. They must also take post-arrival PCR tests on day 2 and day 8.

"Similar action is being taken across the UK."

First minister Mark Drakeford said:

"This new variant is a serious development in the ongoing pandemic. I urge everyone in Wales to continue to work together to keep each other safe. Please get your vaccine or booster when offered, wear a mask when necessary, and book a test if you have symptoms."