Cases of the Indian coronavirus variant in the UK have more than doubled in the past week, according to figures from Public Health England (PHE).
Data published on Thursday showed there are 1,313 cases of the VOC-21APR-02 variant in the country – up from the 520 recorded the previous week.
The COVID-19 strategic response director at PHE, Dr Susan Hopkins, said: “Cases of this variant are rising in the community and we are continuously monitoring its spread and severity to ensure we take rapid public health action.
“We need to act collectively and responsibly to ensure that variants do not impact on the progress we have all made to drive down levels of COVID-19 and the increased freedom that brings.
“That means you should pay attention to and act on the local health advice in your area. Testing and isolating when required not only limits spread, it helps us to better understand how the variant behaves in the community which is vital to taking effective and proportionate action moving forward.
“If you’re asked to take a test please do. The way to limit the spread of all variants is the same. Keep your distance, wash your hands regularly and thoroughly, cover your nose and mouth when inside, keep buildings well ventilated and meet people from other households outside.”