Health

Johnson urges booster shots as UK breaks daily cases record

London, Dec 15 (EFE).- The United Kingdom on Wednesday registered 78,610 new cases of Covid-19, a record figure for a single day since the pandemic began.

The spike in infections comes a day after the British government announced new restrictions in a bid to curb the spread of the new Omicron coronavirus variant, including mandatory use of face masks and proof of a Covid certificate to enter nightclubs and mass events.

Health authorities recorded 4,671 new Omicron cases in the last 24 hours, nearly doubling the total of 10,017 Omicron cases in the country.

At a press conference, prime minister Boris Johnson said it was “absolutely vital” that people get vaccinated or get booster shots to fight the spread of the virus.

“The doubling rate of Omicron in some regions is now down to less than two days,” Johnson warned, adding that hospitalisations were up 10% on a national level and up by nearly a third in London.

But despite the increase in cases and hospitalizations, he said there were “signs of hope.”

Some 44% of the adult population in England has received booster shots including 80% of over 70s.

“People have responded with an amazing spirit of duty and obligation to others,” he added.

The prime minister added that as of Monday, youngsters of ages between 12 to 15 would be able to book appointments for their second dose.

“We know how crucial it is to keep children in schools so let’s all make sure our children and young people are vaccinated before they go back next term,” Johnson said.

There are currently 7,673 people hospitalized for Covid-19 complications across the country, 896 of whom are on ventilation machines. EFE

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