Previously, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and scientists evaluated that the new variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the UK was able to infect 70% faster.
There is no evidence that the new variant causes higher mortality, and the vaccine is thought to be effective against this variant. WHO stated that British officials will continue to share information, current research and analysis results with this organization.
WHO will update the member countries and the public on the characteristics and effects of the new variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Due to an increase in COVID-19 cases associated with a new variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the British Prime Minister canceled plans to relax restrictions at Christmas.