British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Tuesday warned that “Covid is still out there” as he set out plans for tackling Covid during the winters without having to resort to further economically damaging lockdowns.
Addressing a Downing Street press conference, the prime minister called the UK's Covid situation "actually more challenging" than it had been a year ago.
Johnson further said the success of the country’s vaccination programme has led to easing lockdown restrictions, with a backup Plan B in place to re-impose some restrictions if needed.
“Covid is still out there. The disease sadly still remains a risk. But I’m confident we can keep going with our plan to turn jabs jabs jabs into jobs jobs jobs,” said Johnson.
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The winter plan for England includes booster jabs for millions, especially all vulnerable people, health care workers and those aged over 50. The booster shots will be rolled out beginning next week.
Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland confirmed they are to make similar moves.
The winter plan also includes continuing testing, tracing of cases and self-isolation for those who catch the virus.