Tougher lockdown measures have been introduced in parts of northern England after a rise in the rate of novel coronavirus transmission, raising concerns over a second wave.
Britain reported its highest number of new COVID-19 infections in more than a month on Thursday, as ministers warned more quarantine restrictions were possible.
Around 4 million people were ordered not to mix with other households in Greater Manchester, the biggest city in northern England, parts of West Yorkshire and East Lancashire, though they can still go to work.
Those breaking the rules will face a fine of 100 pounds.
"The problem with this virus is that it thrives on the social contact which makes life worth living," Health Secretary Matt Hancock told Sky. "I totally understand the human impact of this but unfortunately that is how the virus passes on."
Asked by the BBC if the UK was now entering a second wave, Hancock said: "It is not yet and we are absolutely determined to take the action that is needed."
The measures were introduced hastily at the start of Eid al-Adha.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday he had ordered the military to "carry out powerful attacks" in Gaza after accusing Hamas of violating a ceasefire agreement in the Palestinian territory.
At least 20 people, including two police officers, were killed in a large-scale operation against organized crime in Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday, days before the Brazilian city is set to host major events related to the COP30 global climate summit.
Hurricane Melissa was expected to bring catastrophe as it makes landfall in Jamaica with storm surges, flash floods and landslides in the worst storm to hit the Caribbean island this century, a U.N. weather official said on Tuesday.
Ukraine is ready for peace talks but will not withdraw its troops from additional territory first as Moscow has demanded, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.
Heavy rains over the past days have caused serious flooding in central Vietnam, especially in top tourism destinations Hue and Hoi An, the government said in a report on Tuesday.
Broadcasting every weekday, Georgia Tolley goes beyond the headlines to speak to government ministers, decision makers, analysts and local experts to find out how the news will impact those of us living in the UAE.
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