Coronavirus: UK deaths reach 241 in 24 hours, highest since early June

More than 21,000 lab-confirmed cases of Covid-19 in last 24 hours, figures show

A further 241 people have died after testing positive with coronavirus, the latest government figures show.

It is the highest daily figure reported since 258 deaths were reported on 5 June, but there is often a delay in the reporting of deaths over a weekend. This brings the total UK death toll to 43,967.

As of Tuesday morning, there had been a further 21,330 lab-confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the UK – bringing the total number of cases in the UK to 762,542.

Separate figures published by the UK’s statistics agencies show there have now been 59,000 deaths registered in the UK where Covid-19 was mentioned on the death certificate.

Dr Yvonne Doyle, the medical director of Public Health England, said the trend in deaths was “rising sharply”, adding: “Tragically we know that older people and those with underlying health conditions tend to suffer more if they become unwell. 

“We all have a responsibility to follow the restrictions to help stop the virus spreading to those who are at greater risk.  

“The measures across the country are there to reduce transmission of the virus which is why it is essential that we all follow them. 

“We know that the easiest and best way to protect each other is to regularly wash our hands, wear a face covering when required and to keep space from each other.”