In Pics | Omicron spoils Christmas cheer as countries impose curbs

Amid rising concerns over the spread of the Omicron variant of coronavirus, the Christmas cheer and New Year holiday mood was spoiled with many countries in Europe, US and Asia reimposing strict Covid-19 curbs to combat the mutant virus. While few countries have decided to seal their borders and restrict the entry of foreign visitors, the Netherlands has imposed a total lockdown restricting people's movement.

Netherlands: Prime Minister Mark Rutte announced a lockdown, ordering the closure of restaurants, saloons, gyms and other public places until at least January 14 to limit the spread of the Omicron variant during Christmas. Credit: AFP Photo

United States: US reimposed the mask mandate till January 31 and announced a stern vaccination mandate for government officials. Credit: Reuters Photo

Israel: Israel has imposed travel restrictions in the wake of the surge in Omicron cases ahead of Christmas. A ban on travel to the United States, Canada and eight other countries have been imposed amid the global spread of the omicron variant. Credit: AFP Photo

Spain: With a sharp rise in coronavirus cases, Spain also imposed a nationwide lockdown, telling all citizens to stay indoors, with limited exceptions. The government also ordered all schools, restaurants, bars and other public place to close, extending measures. Credit: AFP Photo

Australia: Australia re-introduced Covid-19 curbs for two most populous states, New South Wales and Victoria, as daily infections hit their highest amid an outbreak of the highly infectious Omicron variant and a rush on already-stretched testing clinics. Credit: Reuters Photo

China: China has imposed lockdown following a surge in coronavirus cases. Officials ordered all residents to stay home unless they had a strong reason to go out and suspended all transport to and from the city apart from special cases. One person from each household will be permitted out every two days to buy household necessities, the order said. It took effect at December 22, with no word on when it might be lifted. Credit: Reuters Photo

Belgium: The country shied away from a full lockdown like in the neighboring Netherlands. However, Cinemas, theaters and concert halls were closed and indoor activities have been banned in Belgium. Be in shopping malls or stadium, people entering in large groups are prohibited. Credit: Reuters Photo

India: Amid a rise in coronavirus cases and the threat of its Omicron variant, the Delhi Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) directed district magistrates to ensure no Christmas and New Year gathering takes place in the national capital. Credit: Reuters Photo