Infections rose to 33,074
(Picture: Getty Images)New coronavirus infections rose to 33,074 and 94 deaths were recorded on Thursday.
Daily cases have hit the highest number for this week.
Infections have been in the 20,000s this week after new infections soared to 50,000 in mid-July.
It comes as Tuesday marked the deadliest day since March with 146 deaths reported.
Earlier in the day, Professor Steven Riley, from Imperial College London, warned there could be another rise in coronavirus cases in autumn.
Professor Riley looked at why cases had dipped over the summer and he cited being able to socialise outside as one of the main possible factors.
He explained: “I think it is possible that it stays stable or even declines through September and October but I don’t think that’s the most likely outcome.
“Children not being in school, many people not going to the office to work, and it being very easy to socialise outside, those things are currently in our favour and will go against us as we move into September and October.
“Even with the additional vaccination there is going to be a bit of upward pressure so I think there’s a reasonable chance that the prevalence will start to tick up again at some point during September.”
Professor Riley praised the vaccination rollout when he was asked about daily infections falling.
Earlier this summer, Health Secretary Sajid Javid predicted cases could rise to 100,000 a day.
In other news, double-jabbed Britons will not have to isolate from Monday as new rules come into effect, largely ending what has become known as the pingdemic.
Those who have been in close contact of a person who tests positive for Covid-19 will be encouraged to take a PCR test but it will not be mandatory.
This week, London’s Covid cases by borough were revealed with nine areas recording a rise in infections.
