Covid cases have seen a near doubling within the span of a month, now reaching nearly 93,000 new infections each day, according to estimations.

With schools reopening, the anticipation is for cases to continue their ascent into the autumn season.

Data from the ZOE health study reveals that on September 1st, there were approximately 92,965 new daily cases of symptomatic infection, marking a stark increase from around 50,000 cases at the commencement of August.

This study, which relies on data from millions of users of the ZOE app, approximates that currently, there are about 1.15 million people in the UK infected with the virus, roughly equating to one in every 58 individuals.

This surge in cases coincides with the emergence of a new Covid variant known as BA.2.86, referred to as Pirola. A descendant of the Omicron variant, only four cases have been officially identified in the UK, though the volume of testing has significantly reduced.

Although not yet categorized as a 'variant of concern,' health authorities have cautioned that it could potentially pose challenges in the upcoming winter months if it is found to elevate the risk of infection.

In response to these developments, health officials have accelerated the annual flu and Covid vaccination program to ensure the protection of vulnerable populations during the winter. Eligible individuals will be able to schedule their vaccinations a week earlier than initially planned, starting next week, instead of early October.

The vaccination priority will be given to residents in adult care homes and clinically vulnerable individuals, followed by groups including those aged over 65 and healthcare personnel.