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The UK has reported a record daily increase in confirmed coronavirus cases, with another 35,928 infections.
The update comes amid growing concern over a new variant of COVID-19 which appears to be causing a dramatic spike in infections in London and South East England, prompting the prime minister to enforce new level 4 restrictions.
The new strain, which is up to 70% more transmissible, has been found in all parts of the UK except Northern Irelandan expert told Sky News.
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New variant of COVID ‘in all English regions’
In England alone, 32,155 new cases were announced on Sunday, compared to 22,775 on Saturday.
Dr Yvonne Doyle, England’s chief medical officer for Public Health, said the “sharp and sudden increase” in new cases on Sunday was a “serious concern”.
“Most of the new cases reported today are concentrated in London and the South East, although it is too early to know if this is related to the new variant,” he said.
“What we do know is that the way to control this virus is the same, whatever the variant. It just won’t spread if we avoid close contact with others.
“Wash your hands, wear a mask, stay away from others, and reduce your social contacts.
“By working together, we have addressed this virus before. Holding the line for the next several weeks, we may be able to do it again, as we continue to deliver the vaccine to the most vulnerable.”
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New strain of coronavirus ‘seeded’ in Wales
Another 326 deaths within 28 days of a positive test were recorded across the UK on Sunday, bringing the total number of coronavirus-related deaths to 67,401.
The number of cases now stands at 2,040,147.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock has warned that the new strain of COVID-19 is out of control and people must behave as if they already have the virus, especially in the new level 4 areas of England.
The five-day Christmas bubble period was shortened to Christmas Day only for England, Wales, and Scotland, and eliminated entirely for areas of England under the new Tier 4 rules, but remains in Northern Ireland.
