A further 100 cases of the Delta variant of coronavirus have been recorded in Colchester, latest figures reveal.

Public Health England figures show 306 cases of the Delta variant – first identified in India – had been recorded in Colchester by July 7.

That was 108 more than the 198 cases recorded the week before.

Across the UK, 54,268 more cases were recorded in the last week to reach a total of 161,981 – a 32% increase.

Of these, 44 are the so-called Delta plus variant, which India’s health ministry has said spreads more easily, binds more easily to lung cells and is potentially resistant to some drug therapy which can help neutralise the virus.

The Delta variant currently accounts for approximately 99 per cent of cases that are sequenced across the UK.

Dr Jenny Harries, Chief Executive of the UK Health Security Agency, said: "The data continues to show that the sharp increase in cases that we are seeing is not being followed by a similar increase in hospitalisation and death.

"This is because two doses of the available vaccines offer a high level of protection against the Delta variant.

Read more >> More than 100 new cases of the Delta variant confirmed in Colchester

"Getting both jabs is the best way to ensure you and the people you love remain safe, so we once again urge everyone to come forward as soon as they are eligible.

"As we approach the planned end of restrictions, we must remain cautious and careful.

"Cases are rising across the country, and whilst the vaccines offer excellent protection, they do not offer 100 per cent protection.

"Be sensible, and follow ‘hands, face, space, fresh air’ at all times and make sure to get tested if required."