A few explanations why I'm worried: The dynamic of #SARSCoV2 #B117 in the UK is concerning, taking over other strains at rapid speed even though incidence is high. Found in many other countries now too. What does NOT concern me too much right now: 1/n https://twitter.com/EckerleIsabella/status/1345142316458266630

It does not seem to cause more severe #COVID19 (at least what's known so far). Also rather unlikely that a #vaccine becomes largely ineffective at this stage (they cover many epitopes, not just one, plus stimulate T cell response) 2/n

I would also be cautious about the link to children, very difficult in such a situation to decipher the individual factors for higher numbers in certain age groups (overall high incidence, school openings, overall % of the variation). 3/n

However: A variant with higher transmissibility (for #B117 estimated around 50% more) it will be much more difficult to contain spread EVEN with strict measures. Means: more #COVID19 cases on top of already stretched health system, increased fatigue of people for restrictions 4/n

Prospect of vaccines are assuming an end to the #pandemic, politicians focusing rather on the achievement of vaccine campaigns than on (unpopular) non-pharmaceutical public health measures. Lots of infections while vaccinating leads to evolutionary pressure on #SARSCoV2 5/n

So while finally effective vaccines are ready, we risk in parallel an uncontrolled 3rd wave with #B117 or even more new variants of unknown relevance, with many preventable deaths & disease #LongCovid. An unnecessary tragedy from an ethical & public health point of view 6/n