Status: 05/17/2021 8:01 p.m.
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According to official data, the Indian variant of the coronavirus is increasingly spreading in the UK. Nonetheless, the government has now taken a major step towards returning to normal.
From Christoph Prössl,
ARD-Studio London
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There are over 2,300 confirmed cases of the Indian coronavirus variant nationwide, said British Health Minister Matt Hancock in the House of Commons. That is around 1000 more than on May 12th. The northwestern English cities of Bolton and Blackburn are particularly affected: 27 people there who were infected with the Indian variant would be treated in clinics, said Hancock. However, these people were not vaccinated – although they had been called to do so.
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Christoph Prössl
ARD-Studio London
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Hope for effectiveness of vaccinations with variant
Over the weekend, the NHS health service with additional staff vaccinated thousands in the region – including young people. The British government assumes that vaccinations will also work with the Indian variant. Studies on this are not yet available, but initial indications suggest this.
Hancock again pointed out that the Indian variant is significantly more contagious than other mutations, for example the Kent variant, which has prevailed in Great Britain so far.
Cinemas and indoor restaurants open again
Despite the infections with the Indian variant, the British government today allowed further easing. Among other things, cinemas are reopening, indoor catering is allowed again.
It remains to be seen whether all Corona measures will be lifted on June 21 as planned.
Indian Corona variant on the rise in Great Britain
Christoph Prössl, ARD London, May 17, 2021 7:23 p.m.
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