PARIS 13 Sep (ANA) - FRANCE has recorded more than 10,000 new coronavirus cases in its highest ever daily spike, the latest figures show.

 

On Saturday health authorities said there were 10,561 new cases, rising by more than 1,000 from Friday's figures.

 

The number of people admitted to hospital and intensive care is also increasing.

 

Data showed 17 new coronavirus-related deaths were recorded in the past 24 hours.

 

French Prime Minister Jean Castex warned the country was seeing a "clear worsening" of the coronavirus pandemic.

 

He promised steps to speed up tests and toughen local measures in high-infection zones.

 

It is believed more cases are being recorded as a result of increased testing.

 

The PM also ruled out a nationwide lockdown, despite the number of infections shows no signs of slowing down.

 

He said: "We have to succeed in living with this virus, without returning to the idea of a generalised lockdown.

 

"Our strategy is not changing. We must fight the virus without putting on hold our social, cultural and economic life, the education of our children and our ability to live normally."(ANA)

FA/ANA/13 September 2020------