OPINION - Evening Standard Comment: Test first, then party — it’ll protect us all

While scientists gather data on the transmissibility, severity and ability of the Omicron variant to evade vaccines, it is right that we take sensible precautions.

This morning, Health Secretary Sajid Javid suggested people take a lateral flow test before attending social events over the Christmas period.

This is not a legal requirement — like that of wearing face coverings on public transport and in shops — but, like getting boosted and isolating if positive, it will help make this Christmas better than the last, and ensure schools can return as normal in the new year and our economic recovery continues.

At this time of uncertainty, taking a test is one of the easier things we can all do to protect ourselves and the people around us.

World Aids Day

Today is World Aids Day, an opportunity to raise awareness around HIV and to remember the millions of people who lost their lives to the disease.

Thanks to medical breakthroughs and information campaigns, HIV infections in London have seen successive years of decline. However, there are fears that trend could be at risk.

As we report, 56 Dean Street in Soho, Europe’s largest sexual health clinic, said the rate of recently acquired infections was up in the first half of this year.

That is why it is so important that those at risk of contracting HIV take PrEP to keep themselves safe. Tonight, a candlelit vigil will be held in Soho Square Gardens in memory of the 36 million people who have died from Aids-related illnesses around the world.

It’s an opportunity not only to mourn those who we have lost, but a reminder to take action today.