New surge in Delta variant cases in UK

As England nears its stipulated 'Covid exit' date of June 21, the rapid rise in cases of the new Delta B.1.617 variant of Covid-19, first found in India, has put the authorities under a dilemma on whether to postpone the lifting of lockdown.

The first case of the Delta variant was found in the Kent region in England. Experts say at least 60 per cent of the cases found in the United Kingdom are that of this new variant. This variant seems to be more resistant to the vaccine and more transmissible at the same time.

Though the rise in cases is more localised like in the areas of Bolton, Blackburn, Kirklees, Bedford, Burnley, Leicester, Hounslow and North Tyneside, the fact that it is affecting the young adds to the worry.

The government has advised minimal travel in such areas along with an increase in Covid testing and vaccination.