UK Nears 25,000 Omicron Cases... 10,000 Increase in One Day

[Image source=EPA Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] In the UK, where the spread of the COVID-19 Omicron variant is intensifying, the cumulative number of Omicron cases has surged to nearly 25,000. It is reported that more than 10,000 new infections occurred in just one day, causing concern among health authorities.

On the 18th (local time), UK health authorities reported that as of 6 p.m. the previous day, the total confirmed cases of the Omicron variant in the UK reached 24,968 and are expected to soon exceed 25,000. The number of confirmed cases increased by more than 10,000 in just 24 hours. Additionally, the number of hospitalizations due to the Omicron variant rose to 85, and the total cumulative deaths increased to 7.

The pressure on the healthcare system due to the spread of the Omicron variant is also intensifying. According to AFP, in London, the capital city, a 'major incident' was declared to support hospitals burdened by the surge in COVID-19 cases. A major incident refers to a serious event or situation in which local authorities, emergency services, or the National Health Service (NHS) may need to implement special measures.

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diq Khan, the Mayor of London, stated in a press release that day, "Hospital admissions are increasing while healthcare workers are becoming increasingly scarce," adding, "Therefore, after consulting with our partners, I have decided to declare a major incident today." Mayor Khan had also declared a major incident last January when COVID-19 cases surged.

Omicron variant infections are estimated to account for more than 80% of new cases in London. As the spread shows little sign of slowing, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson is scheduled to hold an emergency committee meeting with local governments this weekend.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.