Wirral Council's public health director has given a strong warning about the "enormous pressure" the Omicron variant could put on essential services this winter.

The highly transmissible strain of COVID-19 is said to be spreading rapidly across the country at the moment, with more mask wearing, vaccine passports and a huge push on 'booster jabs' being deployed to tackle it.

In Wirral, coronavirus cases are rising.

There were 1,431 cases recorded at a rate of 441 per 100,000 in the week up to December 8. That is a 13% rise on the rate of 391 per 100,000 the week before, with 1,267 cases registered.

It is not known at this stage if the rise is down to Omicron, but Julie Webster, Wirral Council's director of public health, has put out a message to residents.

Ms Webster said: "We now know that the Omicron variant of COVID-19 is highly transmissible and has the potential to put enormous pressure on essential services in Wirral, this winter.

"To keep Wirral well and stop the spread of infection, I urge all residents to continue doing all the things that we know keep us safe."

The public health director was keen to emphasise the importance of getting vaccinated.

She added: "Getting your jabs is still the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones against COVID-19, including the new Omicron variant.

"Booster jabs are now crucial to restore good levels of immunity, for those who have been fully jabbed for over three months get yours as soon as you can.

"If you haven't had your first and second vaccinations, it is not too late. Please do so now – we have walk-in clinics…

or you can book online."

Ms Webster also wants people to take lateral flow tests before socialising.

She continued: "Please wear a face-covering in all enclosed spaces, including on public transport, shops and at Christmas events. It is now a legal requirement to do this in most indoor settings unless you are exempt.

"Work from home if you can. Wash your hands regularly and use hand-sanitiser when you're out and about.

"If you don't have symptoms, you should take lateral flow tests before socialising, going to events, busy workplaces, or shopping.

"You can collect free testing kits from lots of sites across Wirral.

"If you do have symptoms, self-isolate immediately and get a PCR test."

The public health director also had advice on how people could help prevent spreading the virus in their day-to-day lives.

Ms Webster added: "COVID-19 is an airborne virus, and that means it is safer to meet outdoors. If that isn't possible, open a window to let in some fresh air.

"I know it's cold but even ten minutes of extra airflow can help stop the spread. Thank you all for playing your part."