A POSSIBLE case of Omicron has been detected in Gibraltar.
More information will be available in the next 24-48 hours after tests are carried out.
The follow-up office will inform all close contacts of the case that they should be isolated for 10 days regardless of their vaccination status.
The Director of Public Health, Helen Carter, explained that this is a temporary measure that will give them time until more data is available.
“There is now emerging evidence to suggest that three doses of the Pfizer vaccine can generate a neutralising effect against the new Omicron variant,” said Carter.
“As I have said repeatedly, there is no better option for us than a highly vaccinated community,” said Chief Minister Fabian Picardo.
The Gibraltar government has been urging people to get their booster jabs after COVID cases start to surge on the Rock.
Extra supplies of vaccine arrived on Gibraltar last month withPicardo leading the way by having a booster jab.
A government spokesman said at the time: “In light of the dramatic increase in active COVID-19 cases in the community, it is important to continue to boost immunity against the virus, so all vaccine-eligible individuals are strongly encouraged to accept a booster dose when offered.”
Picardo said: “The booster, caution and personal responsibility is an important part of how we try to stay fully open this winter.”