The UK's coronavirus death toll rose for first time in five months in September - to a total of 57,600.
In data published today, 99 people were recorded of dying from the virus in the week ending September 11, up from 78 a week earlier.
Office for National Statistics data showed the 27% rise could show a change in the downward trend that lasted for 20 weeks.
Over 57,600 deaths involving Covid-19 have now been registered in the UK.
Figures published on Tuesday by the ONS show that 52,513 deaths involving Covid-19 had occurred in England and Wales up to September 11, and had been registered by September 19.
Follow all coronavirus updates on our live blog here
The latest figures mark the second lowest number of deaths involving COVID-19 since Week 12; this is an increase of 21 deaths compared with Week 36 (26.9% increase).
According to the ONS, the number of death registrations may have been affected by the August Bank holiday which may have caused delays in deaths being registered in Week 36, resulting in an increase in deaths being registered in Week 37.
Last Monday, September 14, the death toll increased by nine - while cases rose by 2,621.
A steady increase in infections prompted the government to ban gatherings of more than six people in England - with the new new 'rule of six' measure coming into force a week ago today.
Michael Gove has admitted the coronavirus crisis will not be over by Christmas amid a dire six-month warning by the UK's top scientists.
The Cabinet Office minister said Britain is facing a 'challenging next six months' as winter flu and other seasonal conditions affect the public.
It comes after Chris Whitty yesterday warned the 'seasons are against us', describing the crisis as a 'six-month problem'.
This morning, Mr Gove told BBC Breakfast: "It is the case - as Professor Vallance and Chris Whitty pointed out yesterday - that we are going to have a challenging next six months.
"That's because we know during winter - with flu and other conditions - (it) puts particular strain on the public's health."
The Tory minister was unable to say how long the new coronavirus measures are expected to last.
"What we hope is we can take appropriate steps now, which mean that if we succeed in beating back the virus, then we will in the future be able to progressively relax them," he added.
"But what I can't do is predict with absolute certainty."
Mr Gove also warned Brits they should work from home if they can, despite the government previously urging workers to return to offices.
We'll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.
