New data shows that case rates have risen sharply across all age groups in England following the return to school after half term. 

A total of 722.9 new cases per 100,000 people aged 5-9 were recorded in the seven days to 14 November, up week-on-week from 484.5.

The rate for 10- to 19-year-olds also rose to 694.2, up from 571.7.

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Earlier this week, the government made it possible for councils to order mask-wearing in schools across local areas without central government approval.

The figures, from the UK Health Security Agency (HSA), are likely to reflect the return of pupils to school after the half-term holiday in late October.

Responding to the figures, Professor Steven Riley, the HSA’s director-general of data, analytics and surveillance, warned: “Rates of Covid-19 continue to increase in those from younger age groups, and hospitalisations remain highest in those aged 85 and over.

“More people than ever are eligible for second and booster doses and it is as important as ever to get vaccinated or receive a booster jab as soon as you are offered one.”