An emergency meeting was held yesterday amid concerns about growing numbers of cases of the Indian variant of Covid-19 in the UK.

The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (Sage) reportedly held discussions about the spread of the Indian variant and how it could have an impact on the Government’s road map out of lockdown.

Infection rates in part of England such as Bolton have soared in the past week, with experts blaming the rise on the new variant.

Despite the concerns, there is no evidence of a spike in cases in mid Essex

There has also been no mass testing carried out in areas, suggesting there are very few concerns about the spread of the variant.

The latest weekly data shows Braintree has seen a rise in cases in the past seven days compared to the week before.

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The district has an average infection rate of 5.9 cases per 100,00 people – but that is still very low compared to figures recorded earlier this year.

There were nine cases in the week to May 8 confirmed in the area.

Most parts of the district also remain almost "Covid free", with less than three cases recorded in the week to May 8.

The only area to record three or more cases is Flitch Green, Felsted and High Easter. 

Just outside the district Great Leighs and the Walthams and Great Dunmow also recorded more than three cases.