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THE Indian variant of Covid was found in Herefordshire, official data shows.
According to the data, the Covid variant B.1.617.2 was found in the district in the two weeks until May 8.
The Wellcome Sanger Institute, with the help of Public Health England, has followed the spread of the variant in England.
The data shows that four cases of the variant were identified in Herefordshire per week over this two week period, but do not provide a more specific location.
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That’s less than 210 in Bolton, which has been identified as one of the hotspots for the new variant.
The Hereford Times approached the Herefordshire Council public health team for comment, but last week a family doctor in the county admitted he was concerned about variants of Covid.
Dr. Simon Lennane has admitted that he is concerned about variants of Covid
Ross-on-Wye GP Dr. Simon Lennane said: “The main risk now is new ‘worrying variants’.
“High case numbers in other countries are mutating the virus and there is concern that the change could make our current vaccines less effective.
“The lack of surveillance for people from high-risk countries has made us vulnerable to these new variants, and we should learn from those countries that have pursued and implemented a zero-covid approach.”
Amid ongoing concerns about the rapidly spreading variant – first identified in India – 37-year-olds were invited to book their coronavirus vaccination.
There are fears that the new Indian variant could jeopardize future plans to ease restrictions.
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At the same time, on the advice of the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunization (JCVI), people over 50 have their second vaccination brought forward.
Some scientists warn that the variant could lead to a deadly new wave of the virus.
The Times reported that ministers are considering contingency plans for local lockdowns if the load cannot be controlled.
In the House of Commons, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said Monday there are now 2,323 confirmed cases of the Indian tribe in the UK, with 86 parishes recording at least five.
Worst hit were Bolton and Blackburn with Darwen – where she is now the dominant strain with a total of 483 cases in the two areas – followed by Bedford.
People lining up for Covid vaccinations at ESSA academy in Bolton as the spread of the Indian variant of coronavirus could lead to the return of local lockdowns. Image: Danny Lawson / PA Wire
The authorities have responded with “surge” vaccinations and tests at virus hotspots to contain the spread of the disease.
However, Mr Hancock expressed frustration that of the 19 hospital cases in Bolton, the majority had not received the vaccine despite being eligible.
Health Secretary Matt Hancock makes a statement to the House of Representatives on the Covid-19 pandemic and the latest scientific assessment of the Indian variant. Image: House of Commons / PA Wire
Despite concerns that the Indian variant is even more transmissible than the dominant Kent tribe, the latest easing of lockdown restrictions on Monday went ahead as planned in most parts of England, Scotland and Wales.
This meant that pubs and restaurants could welcome customers inside while people inside could socialize and hug family and friends outside their own household.
However, ministers have warned that the final lifting of lockdown restrictions in England may have to be postponed to June 21 if the new variant spreads further.
Downing Street said Monday that updates on plans for domestic coronavirus “passports,” announcements to ease social distancing requirements and other guidelines for weddings due later this month could now be postponed.