Boris Johnson speaks at COVID-19 press briefing

The press conference discusses the rapid spread of coronavirus in London, the Southeast, and the East of England, attributed to a new variant of the virus. This variant, analyzed by NERVTAG, is not linked to more severe illness but is significantly more transmissible, potentially increasing the R number by 0.4 or more. Although early data suggests it may be up to 70% more transmissible, there is considerable uncertainty. The situation requires immediate action based on the best available information.

What regions are experiencing a rapid spread of the coronavirus according to the speaker?

• London, the Southeast, and the East of England

• Northern Ireland and Scotland

• Midlands and the North of England

• Wales and the West of England

What is the main reason for the increased spread of the virus in certain areas?

• Warmer weather conditions

• Increased travel during holidays

• A new variant of the virus

• Lack of public compliance with restrictions

What has the advisory group NERVTAG concluded about the new variant?

• It causes more severe illness

• It has a higher mortality rate

• It is more easily transmitted

• It is less transmissible than the original virus

By how much could the new variant potentially increase the R number?

• By 0.6 or more

• By 0.1 or less

• By 0.2 or more

• By 0.4 or more

What is the estimated increase in transmissibility of the new variant compared to the original virus?

• 30% more transmissible

• 50% more transmissible

• 70% more transmissible

• 90% more transmissible