CORONAVIRUS cases have been continuing to rise across Dorset, amid growing concerns the mutant strain is spreading.

London and areas across the South East were put into Tier 4 after a mutant strain, which spreads significantly quicker than the original virus, was discovered.

And the variant strain is in all regions of the UK, according to data from ONS, prompting Public Health England to reiterate its advice for the public.

Dr Yvonne Doyle, medical director at PHE, said: “This sharp and sudden increase is of serious concern. Most of the new cases reported are concentrated in London and the South East, although it is too early to tell if this is linked to the new variant.

“What we do know is that the way to control this virus is the same, whatever the variant. It simply will not spread if we avoid close contact with others. Wash your hands, wear a mask, keep your distance from others, and reduce your social contacts.

“By working together we have tackled this virus before. By holding the line over the next few weeks, it is possible we can do so again, as we continue to roll out the vaccine to the most vulnerable.”

Despite the mutant strain spreading quickly around the country, with a 57 per cent increase in cases in the past week, Public Health Dorset declined to comment on the situation in the county.

PHD were asked how it was prepared to deal with any outbreak due to the mutant strain, and whether they expect it to grow in the county.

The health organisation said it wouldn’t comment further from the PHE statement, and reiterated people should follow the government guidance. BCP Council also chose not to comment.

Specifically, cases in Boscombe West have increased rapidly over recent weeks.

In the seven days leading to December 18, 43 cases were confirmed in Boscombe West, giving a rolling infection rate of 403.9 per 100,000 people.

A week previously, 14 cases were confirmed in the seven days before December 11, a rate of 131.5.

In the week leading up to December 4, the rate was 75.1 per 100,000 people.

At the time of writing, the Daily Echo had not received a statement from PHD about the spike in cases.