‘Clusters’ across the country as number of Indian variant cases rises to 3,424

There are now 3,424 cases of the Indian variant in the UK, according to the latest figures from Public Health England.

The B.1.617.2 variant of concern, which is believed to be more transmissible than the Kent variant that had become dominant in the country, has resulted in surge testing and vaccinations in many areas.

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Health Secretary Matt Hancock said on Wednesday that 2,967 cases of the COVID-19 variant had been recorded, having stood at more than 2,300 on Monday.

These latest figures are up to 19 May and represent a rise of 2,111 from the previous week.

A total of 3,245 cases have been recorded in England, 136 in Scotland, 28 in Wales and 15 in Northern Ireland.