LONDON — The U.K. reported a record number of new daily Covid-19 cases on Wednesday, with 78,610 in the last 24 hours.

It was an increase over the 59610 reported the day prior and exceeds the Jan. 8 record of 68,053 cases.

This highlights the sudden rise in infection rates in Britain ahead of Christmas holidays. One senior British health official warned that “staggering” numbers could occur in the coming days.

There have been long lines outside of vaccination centers across the U.K., with many waiting in line. The government has increased its booster program to ensure that as many people can get their third shot as possible.

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