Indian coronavirus variant present in Bolton is escalated to 'variant of concern'
A coronavirus strain first detected in India and now present in Bolton has been escalated to a "variant of concern", Public Health England (PHE) has confirmed.
Figures show cases of the variant have increased to 520 from 202 over the last week, and almost half of these cases are related to travel or contact with a traveller.
The cases are spread across the country, with the majority in two areas - the North West, mainly in Bolton, and London, PHE said.
The decision to reclassify the variant is based on evidence which suggests it is at least as transmissible as a strain known as the Kent variant, PHE said.
PHE said there is currently "insufficient evidence" to indicate that any of the variants recently detected in India cause more severe disease or make the vaccines available any less effective.
The variant, previously known as B16172, has been reclassified as VOC-21APR-02, PHE said.
PHE health protection teams are working with local authorities, public health officials and NHS Test and Trace to detect cases and limit onward spread.
Surge testing will be deployed where there is evidence of community transmission, PHE added.
Dr Susan Hopkins, Covid-19 Strategic Response Director at PHE said:
Asked about his concerns on the Indian variant of Covid-19, the Prime Minister said: