The UK has reported 15 more coronavirus-related deaths and 2,493 new COVID-19 cases in the latest 24-hour period, according to government data.

The figures compare with three deaths and 2,439 cases announced on Monday, while seven deaths and 2,412 cases were revealed last Tuesday.

It comes as another 122,379 people had their first dose of a COVID vaccine on Monday, taking the total to 38,192,417.

And 332,955 received their second jab on Monday, meaning 23,228,511 are now fully vaccinated against coronavirus.

Meanwhile in Bolton, a COVID hotspot, patients are being urged only to attend A&E at the Royal Bolton Hospital if it is absolutely necessary.

Hospital bosses have reported more people requiring treatment for the effects of COVID-19, as well as patients with a range of problems.

The Greater Manchester borough, one of the areas where the Indian variant has been identified, has the highest number of coronavirus cases in the country, with 1,296 new cases in the seven days to 20 May.

Chief operating officer and deputy chief executive of Bolton NHS Foundation Trust Andy Ennis said: “Yesterday was one of the busiest days we have ever had in our emergency department.

“People are presenting with a range of problems and staff are working very hard to ensure they receive all the care they need as quickly and efficiently as possible.

“However, we are also now seeing more people requiring hospital treatment from the effects of COVID-19, and, whilst we have discharged a number overnight, today we still have 41 inpatients with COVID, including eight in critical care.”

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