At least one case of the new Covid-19 variant Omicron has been recorded in Buckinghamshire, it's been confirmed.
The infection, discovered on Wednesday, takes the number of known cases in the UK to 32.
South Africa first alerted the world to the new variant on 24th November, however since then multiple infections have been found across Europe that pre-date this, raising doubts about its origins.
The new strain is causing concern due to the number of mutations it has – more than 40. Experts fear this may enable it to spread easier and evade some of the immunity afforded via previous infection or vaccination.
Little is known about the severity of Omicron at the moment and it will take a number of weeks before scientists have that information.
On Tuesday, as a precaution until we know more, the UK Government reintroduced mandatory mask-wearing in shops and on public transport, and have said booster jabs will now be offered to all adults.
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