Patrick Vallance speaks at COVID-19 press briefing

The video discusses a new virus variant, focusing on its increased transmissibility. It examines three key questions: the variant's transmission rate, its impact on disease severity, and its effect on the immune response. Evidence from genetic, frequency, and laboratory studies suggests the variant spreads faster and is becoming dominant. However, there is no current evidence that it causes more severe disease or increased hospitalization.

What are the three main questions raised about the new virus variant?

• Its transmissibility, its impact on disease severity, and its effect on immunity

• Its origin, its symptoms, and its treatment

• Its color, its size, and its shape

• Its lifespan, its habitat, and its diet

Which type of studies suggest that the new variant has increased transmissibility?

• Genetic, frequency, and laboratory studies

• Astrological studies

• Meteorological studies

• Historical studies

By early December, what percentage of cases in London were attributed to the new variant?

• 10%

• 30%

• 60%

• 90%

What does the rapid spread of the new variant indicate?

• It is becoming the dominant variant

• It is only present in rural areas

• It is less contagious than other variants

• It is not a concern for public health

Does the new variant cause more severe disease according to current evidence?

• No, it is less severe than other variants

• Yes, it leads to more hospitalizations

• No, it does not cause more severe disease

• Yes, it causes more severe symptoms