CORONAVIRUS Q&A

Sarah Knapton, Science Editor, answers your questions about the chances of a second virus wave

Roger Faires

Q

As we are past the peak, why do we still need to strengthen the NHS if not to ride out successive peaks and develop herd immunity? A The capacity is being built up for future peaks, not just this one, and I expect we will definitely see an upsurge towards the end of the year.

The Government’s fifth test for ending lockdown – avoiding a second peak – has now been changed. I don’t think the plan is to achieve herd immunity, but to buy more time until a vaccine or treatment is available.

Sharon Murray

Q

Deaths peaked on April 8. With 23 days average between infection and death, infections therefore peaked on March 16. If we peaked before lockdown, why should we expect a second peak? A The first major social distancing came into effect from March 16 and many businesses began shutting. Many employees were already working from home by then and mass gatherings had stopped. The vulnerable and over-70s were effectively put into lockdown.

That appears to have had a big impact and suggests that if it hadn’t happened the peak would have been higher and later. But yes, it does suggest that less restrictive measures also keep the virus down.

Michael Wigg

Q

Why are governments so (overtly) squeamish about accepting collateral damage as a result of allowing the economy to work freely?

A

If you were being cynical you might call the response pragmatic. Governments are generally unwilling to kill off the electorate as it tends to be unpopular! That said, if we get to a point where the harms are outweighing the benefits then restrictions will have to be lifted.

Anna via Whatsapp

Q

Why can we not learn from other countries about exit strategy as we went into lockdown after them?

A Ministers are watching other countries closely to see what strategies have worked. For example the contact tracing app that the NHS is developing is based on software rolled out in South Korea and Singapore.

Paul Dover

Q

If people with the virus selfisolated, why have we got the continuing new cases, deaths and the warning of a “second wave”? A The problem here is that not everyone got the virus at the same time. Also it now appears that many people are asymptomatic. Growing evidence suggests that people can get the virus a second time.