UK daily Covid cases surpass 100,000 for first time

It surpasses the previous record by more than 13,000

The UK has recorded more than 100,000 Covid cases in a day for the first time since the pandemic began. The latest government figures show that the country recorded 106,122 cases in the last 24 hour period, breaking the previous record of 93,045 which was set on December 17. The Omicron variant continues to surge across the nation, but on Tuesday Boris Johnson confirmed that no new restrictions would be put in place for Christmas Day. There were also 140 deaths reported within 28 days of a positive Covid test. Wednesday's cases represent the highest daily reported number since mass testing began in May and June last year. In recent days, the UK has recorded unprecedented numbers of Covid cases, with eight of the 10 highest daily totals for reported infections coming since December 15. On Tuesday, the government announced that no new restrictions would be in place for Christmas Day, and that the self-isolation requirement for people in England would reduced to one week from 10 days, if they can test negative on days six and seven. Related links:

• Most common first Omicron symptom reportedly found in 90 per cent of new cases
• Boris Johnson says there will be no new Covid rules before Christmas
• New year is ‘too late’ for extra Covid restrictions, say scientists

Government vaccine advisors have also recommended that vulnerable children aged between five and 11 should be offered a low-dose Covid vaccine, and that 12 to 17-year-olds can now be offered boosters. This week, Scotland and Wales have both announced further Covid-19 measures.