Prof Chris Whitty, Chief Medical Officer for England answers questions from media at No10 Downing Street press briefing

The transcript discusses the ongoing public health measures and behavior changes since March 2020, emphasizing that many people are still taking precautions like wearing masks and limiting social interactions. It highlights the global moral and practical imperative to distribute vaccines, especially to low-income countries. The need for booster doses is examined, with evidence suggesting waning immunity, particularly among older adults and those with health conditions. The UK's approach to booster doses is described as a balanced middle path, focusing on high-risk groups rather than universal boosters. The discussion also touches on the logistical challenges of vaccine distribution in lower-income countries.

What are some of the measures people are taking to reduce COVID-19 transmission?

• Traveling more frequently

• Avoiding vaccination

• Meeting more people

• Wearing masks in crowded places

Why is it important to distribute vaccines globally, especially to low-income countries?

• To reduce the number of vaccines available in high-income countries

• To increase vaccine prices

• To delay the pandemic recovery

• To fulfill a moral and practical imperative

What is the UK's approach to COVID-19 booster doses?

• No boosters for anyone

• Universal boosters for everyone

• A middle path focusing on vulnerable groups

• Boosters only for children

Which groups are prioritized for booster doses in the UK?

• Young adults

• Health and social care workers

• Tourists

• Athletes

What is a misunderstanding regarding the impact of stopping boosters in high-income countries?

• It will immediately improve the situation in low-income countries

• It will have no effect on global vaccine distribution

• It will increase the shelf life of vaccines

• It will reduce the need for cold chain logistics