A "robust screening process" has been set up amid rising cases of diphtheria at asylum seeker accommodation.

Minister for immigration, Robert Jenrick, spoke in parliament today about the plans put in place, including screening at Dover, in a bid to prevent the disease spreading.

This afternoon, the minister confirmed there were 50 cases of diphtheria among those who have come to the UK.

As of November 10, 39 diphtheria cases had been identified in asylum seekers in England.

A man held at Manston died in hospital on November 19 after crossing the Channel seven days earlier.

Although initial tests came back negative, a follow-up PCR test indicated “diphtheria may be the cause of the illness”, Government officials said.

A post-mortem examination is being carried out to determine the cause of death.

Speaking today, Mr Jenrick said: "It’s important to emphasise that the UK Health Security Agency (HSA) has been clear that the risk to the wider UK population from onward transmission of diphtheria is very low thanks in no small part to our childhood immunisation programme, and because the infection is typically passed on through close prolonged contact with a case.

"The UK HSA confirmed that they believe it is likely these cases were developed before they entered the UK.

"The Home Office has worked closely with the NHS and the UK HSA to identify and to isolate anyone with a diphtheria infection."

Mr Jenrick announced the plans put in place to prevent the disease spreading which include a vaccination programme and screening processes on arrival at the Western Jet Foil immigration centre in Dover to "proactively identify those with symptoms of diphtheria".

He added there will also be round the clock health facilities at Manston including emergency department consultants and paramedics, guidance in multiple languages on spotting the symptoms of diphtheria, and an enhanced vaccination programme offering to all those arriving at Maston.

The minister confirmed100% of those who arrived at Manston this weekend had taken up the vaccine offer.

"Those testing positive are being isolated in a designated place," he said.

"Today we’re going above and beyond the UK HSA base line by instituting new guidance on the transportation and accommodation of individuals displaying diphtheria symptoms.

"So from today no one presenting with symptoms will progress into the asylum accommodation system.

"They will either remain at Manston isolating for a short period or they will travel to a designated isolation centre in secure transport where they will be treated until deemed medically fit.

"This is a well practice protocol from Covid times."

The minister said he appreciates the concerns that have been raised and he can fully assure the house that the Home Office is acutely aware of its responsibility both to those in care, but also to the British public.

"We will take all steps necessary to ensure that the public are protected," he concluded.

It comes after Home Secretary Suella Braverman faced criticism about overcrowding and outbreaks of disease at Manston.

At one point, as many as 4,000 people were being detained there, which is designed to hold just 1,600, but last week Government sources said the site had been emptied.