A new variant of COVID-19 has started creating panic in the UK. The Boris Johnson government has described the situation as incredibly difficult. As per the latest reports, stringent lockdowns have been put in place in London, Wales and South-east England.

In a statement, the Prime Minister of UK observed that there is no evidence to suggest that the Pfizer vaccine, which has been administered to 3.5 lakh people in the country, is less effective against the new variant.

There is a considerable alarm in the UK about the spread of the new strain, which transmits 70% faster than the older strains. However, the new strain doesn't necessarily cause a more serious illness as per the hitherto available. evidence.

AFP has reported that European countries have banned flights from the UK. The World Health Organization has called for stronger containment measures at a time when the UK government has described the situation as being out of control in the country.

There are demands in India that the government must ban flights from the UK.