Boris Johnson delivering coronavirus press briefing

The transcript discusses the emergence of the B1617.2 variant, first observed in India, and its spread in parts of the UK. It highlights the uncertainty regarding the variant's transmissibility and the potential impact on public health measures. The good news is that current vaccines remain effective against severe illness and hospitalization. The speaker emphasizes the importance of monitoring the situation closely as the vaccination program continues to combat the virus.

Where was the B.1.617.2 variant first identified?

• United Kingdom

• India

• South Africa

• Brazil

What is the main concern about the B.1.617.2 variant?

• Its impact on children

• Its resistance to vaccines

• Its increased transmissibility

• Its origin

What might happen if the B.1.617.2 variant is significantly more transmissible?

• The variant will disappear

• Current plans will continue unchanged

• Hard choices may need to be made

• Vaccination efforts will stop

What is the current evidence regarding vaccines and the B.1.617.2 variant?

• Vaccines are less effective

• Vaccines are ineffective

• Vaccines cause severe side effects

• Vaccines remain effective against severe illness

How many lives have been estimated to be saved by the vaccine rollout according to Public Health England?

• 33,000

• 20,000

• 12,000

• 5,000