The new BA.2.86 Covid variant has been found at a Norfolk care home where 28 people have been infected.

The unnamed care home accounted for 28 of the 34 cases of the new variant discovered in England.

Dr Renu Bindra, incident director, UKHSA, said: “Specialists from UKHSA have been working with Norfolk County Council to offer infection control advice and support following a confirmed outbreak of BA.2.86 in a care home.”

Staff and residents of the care home underwent PCR testing by local health protection officials when an unusually high number of people became unwell.

Positive samples were sent for whole genome sequencing at UKHSA laboratories, where BA.2.86 was confirmed in the majority of samples.

The government brought forward Covid vaccinations for vulnerable groups, including care home residents and staff, this month, following the discovery of new variants. Interim director of public health at Norfolk County Council, Stuart Lines, said: “We have been working closely with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) in their support to manage an outbreak of Covid-19 in a Norfolk care home.

“The care home has acted proactively and responsibly in prioritising the health and wellbeing of their residents and have been liaising regularly with UKHSA and promptly acting on their advice.

“As with any outbreak of Covid-19 in a care home or similar residential setting, Norfolk County Council continues to work with UKHSA to provide ongoing advice and support.