Total UK Covid cases since pandemic began hits 20 million – with 89,717 new infections

THE UK has reached over 20 million coronavirus infections today after a further 89,717 people tested positive for the virus.

Since the start of the pandemic, 20,001,627 cases have been recorded.

It’s important to note that some of these infections could be second and even third infections and today’s data update does not necessarily mean that 20 million people have had the bug.

Today’s infection rate is slightly down on yesterday’s, when 91,345 people tested positive.

The BA2 strain of Omicron continues to spread and vaccinations are still the best way to prevent severe complications from the virus.

Sadly a further 138 people have lost their lives within 28 days of a positive coronavirus test.

It’s down from yesterday, when 153 people lost their lives.

Deaths however, have remained stable, due to the milder nature of Omicron and immunity building across the country.

The update from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) comes after another study found that Covid infections are at their highest ever levels.

Fresh data from the ZOE COVID Study app found daily infections have increased by 46 per cent in a week, at around 258,155 currently.

Experts behind the major study, which has run throughout the pandemic, say this is a record high.

The Health Secretary Sajid Javid has reassured Brits any waning immunity will be combatted with a fourth dose being rolled out to the vulnerable by the end of the month.

These jabs will be given to those who have not already had a fourth dose, such as people who are immunosuppressed and those over the age of 75.

But one expert has warned that cases are already starting to rise in vulnerable groups.

Professor Tim Spector, lead scientist on the ZOE COVID Study app warned that while restrictions have been scrapped – the pandemic is not quite over.

He said: “Covid cases are now at the highest levels the ZOE COVID Study has ever recorded.

“Even more concerning is the rise in new cases in people aged over 75. This vulnerable group have had low case numbers for months.

“We will need to wait a few weeks to see the full impact on increased hospitalisation but numbers have already started to rise.

“The data shows this pandemic is definitely not over yet and is more unpredictable than ever, despite government messages to the contrary and a lack of public health advice.”

His comments come after it was revealed yesterday older Brits can book their boosters to halt a resurgence of Covid.