Virus variant blamed for spiralling infection rates
LONDON: The British capital is to be hit with tougher coronavirus control measures, the government said, blaming spiralling infection rates on the rapid spread of a new variant.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock said London, and parts of three surrounding counties, would move into the highest of three levels of restrictions in force across England from Wednesday.
Pubs, bars, restaurants and other hospitality venues will have to close, except for takeaway food, as will theatres and other venues in the entertainment sector.
Curbs have been placed on more than one household mixing indoors, although people can still meet in groups of up to six in public places outside.
Shops and schools can remain open.
Hancock said London had seen a ‘sharp rise’ in daily cases and hospital admissions, and there was public health concern about a new strain of the coronavirus.
“This action is absolutely essential, not just to keep people safe but because we have seen early action can prevent more damage and longerterm problems later,” he told parliament.
In some areas, cases are doubling every seven days, he said, warning: “It only takes a few doublings for the NHS (National Health Service) to be overwhelmed.”
A ‘new variant’ of the virus in the south of England that may be causing infections to spread faster, he added.
But he said: “There’s currently nothing to suggest it is more likely to cause serious cases and the latest clinical advice is it is highly unlikely to fail to respond to a vaccine.”