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.

How does the current situation with vaccines differ from the last time a new variant was faced?

What is the main concern regarding the race between the vaccination program and the virus?