THE pandemic is not over yet - that's the warning to Southampton residents after four cases of the highly-transmissible Omicron variant were found in the city.

People living in the Southampton area are being urged to follow public health advice as well as getting their Covid vaccinations and booster shots if they have not already done so.

Last night the city council confirmed there were currently no plans for surge testing.

It said the four cases were in different parts of the city and were linked either to international travel or contact with someone who had arrived from overseas.

Southampton's Director of Public Health, Debbie Chase, said: "The detection of Omicron in the city is a reminder that the pandemic is not over.

“We are working with UK Health Security Agency to ensure all contact tracing takes place and residents do not have to take any specific additional actions.

"However, we should be vigilant and remember we all have a role to play in helping to limit the spread of the virus.

"We can do this by continuing to test in line with national guidance, having our vaccinations and booster shots when eligible, wearing masks in shops and on public transport, and self-isolating when required to do so."

The leader of the Labour group on the council, Cllr Satvir Kaur, added: "It’s an important reminder that the pandemic isn’t over.

"I would strongly urge everyone to listen to the public health advice being given by Dr Chase as well as getting vaccinated if they haven’t already.

"No-one wants to have another Christmas without loved ones, so I hope all civic and community leaders show real leadership in mask-wearing and taking other easy, everyday steps to keep us all safe.”

Giles Semper of Go!Southampton voiced similar views.

He said: "If our retailers are to be supported, it’s essential that customers obey the current guidance and wear masks inside shops, with no exceptions.

"Retail staff shouldn’t have to ask customers to be compliant.

"And if you’re planning your office Christmas party, think about how the risk of transmission can be reduced. Why not check the ventilation of the venue and ask everybody to do a lateral flow test before they arrive?"

Alan Whitehead, Labour MP for Southampton Test, said the government should be doing more to ramp up the booster jab roll-out.

He added: "I've heard from many constituents who are desperate to get themselves and their loved ones protected. However many of them, even in the 40-plus age groups, are finding it difficult to get a nearby appointment."

Royston Smith, Tory MP for Southampton Itchen, said early data appeared to show that people who were double vaccinated, particularly those who had also received their booster jabs, were less likely to become seriously ill if they contracted the Omicron variant.

He added: "We need more people to come forward for vaccination but I don’t feel we need more restrictions."