THE ECHO’s readers are overwhelmingly in favour of the Government’s temporary strengthening of Covid-19 measures.

As of today, a raft of new measures have been introduced in response to concerns over the newly identified Omicron variant.

Face coverings are once again compulsory in shops and on public transport while all contacts of suspected Omicron cases will be required to self-isolate for 10 days, regardless of a person's vaccination status.

Additionally, anyone entering the UK will require a PCR test within 48 hours of arrival and will need to self-isolate until they have a negative result.

Students in year 7 and above have also been advised to wear face masks in communal areas unless exempt.

The measures are temporary and will be reviewed after three weeks.

The Echo’s readers have reacted to the news, with most saying they are pleased measures are being taken to protect the public.

Sandra Taylor said: “Yes I will continue to wear a mask, I never stopped. I was on the highly vulnerable list so rather be safe than sorry.”

Alan Shelley agreed, saying: “I have never stopped wearing a mask. It protects me, and others. Seemed like common sense to me.”

Julie Perrin Was Moss is another reader who had kept wearing masks even when they weren’t mandatory.

She said: “When you have lost someone close to you. You also have people around you that are vulnerable, you do anything to protect them and yourself.”

Jenny Merton commented she had been to Hadleigh Morrisons where “most people” were wearing masks.

Essex’s director of public health Dr Mike Gogarty says the new measures are important to buy health professionals time to study the new variant of concern

He said: “The aim is to understand what, if any, spread of the new variant within the local community may have occurred and limit the opportunity for any further spread.

“While this work takes place, it is important that everyone takes sensible precautions. Get a PCR test if you have symptoms, isolate when asked, wear a face covering in enclosed spaces, ventilate rooms, get your vaccine and boosters as soon as you can.”