New measures to boost response to the B1.617.2 Covid-19 variant of concern
The variant, first identified in India, is beginning to spread increasingly rapidly in certain areas of England. Action being taken to further control its spread includes additional surge testing, increased genomic sequencing and enhanced contact tracing.
Source:
Department of Health and Social Care
SPS commentary:
The latest Public Health England (PHE) data show cases of the variant have risen from 520 to 1,313 cases this week in the UK. The variant was confirmed as a Variant of Concern on 7 May after a rise in cases and evidence of spread in some areas. PHE is actively monitoring the impact of this variant and its severity and is taking all appropriate public health actions to limit the spread.