Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) - A new strain of the Omicron coronavirus has been identified for the first time in Uzbekistan. This was reported by the press service of the Ministry of Health of Uzbekistan.

According to the ministry, on 7 January, a new strain of the omicron coronavirus was detected for the first time in Uzbekistan.

The special republican commission for combating coronavirus has decided to strengthen control over observance of the mask regime, social distance and other quarantine requirements.

All organizations, businesses, shopping malls, supermarkets and entertainment establishments must enforce masking, social distancing, and temperature measurement of visitors and employees.

Pilgrims who commit Umrah must take a PCR test or a rapid test upon arrival from Saudi Arabia to Uzbekistan.

Measures will be strengthened to ensure complete vaccination and revaccination of the population.

Heads of ministries and departments, as well as organizations will allow only vaccinated employees to work. Citizens who violate this order will be punished to the fullest extent of the law.

Measures will be taken to ensure complete vaccination of university students. The management of the universities will be responsible for implementation of these measures.

From 15 January, those entering Uzbekistan from abroad must have a certificate of a negative result of a PCR test for coronavirus infection, made at least 48 hours before arrival.

In the absence of a PCR test with a negative result, travelers must undergo rapid testing for the presence of coronavirus infection at airports, train stations and border checkpoints.

The commission prohibited ministries and departments, as well as other state organizations, from holding various mass events.