A coronavirus strain first detected in India has been declared a “variant of concern” by Public Health England, as cases more than double in a week.

The designation of the COVID-19 variant known as B1617.2, raises the prospect of an escalation in response, including the use of surge testing in hotspots to curb transmission.

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It comes as the government is due to reveal quarantine-free holiday destinations with the expected lifting of the ban on foreign breaks from 17 May.

However, despite concerns over the current coronavirus variant, health experts have said they “haven’t seen any hint” any COVID strain can evade the vaccines.

The strain is one of three related variants first seen in India which have been detected in the UK and designated “under investigation” by PHE.

The others are B1617.1 and B1617.3.

Cases of B1617.2 have increased to 520 from 202 over the last week and almost half the cases are related to travel or contact with a traveller.

The cases are spread across the country however the majority are located in two areas – the North West, mainly Bolton, and London.

PHE are working with local authorities, health teams and NHS Test and Trace to detect cases and contain infection.

Residents in affected areas will be asked to get a test, even if they do not have symptoms, and if are found to be positive must isolate to halt the spread.

Dr Susan Hopkins, COVID-19 strategic response director at PHE said: “The way to limit the spread of all variants is the same and although we are all enjoying slightly more freedom, the virus is still with us.

“Keep your distance, wash your hands regularly and thoroughly, cover your nose and mouth when inside and keep buildings well ventilated and meet people from other households outside.

“If you are told to get a test, if you have any symptoms at all or have been in contact with someone who has tested positive, please make sure you get tested too.

“We are monitoring all of these variants extremely closely and have taken the decision to classify this as a variant of concern because the indications are that this… is a more transmissible variant.”

While the other strains detected in India are not classed as variants of concern, they will be kept under constant review.

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