Sir Patrick Vallance speaking at daily coronavirus press briefing

The video explains the R number, which indicates how many people one infected person will infect. An R number above 1 means the epidemic grows, while below 1 means it shrinks. The R number is calculated using various models, and in the UK, it is currently between 0.7 and 0.9, indicating a decrease in epidemic size. Calculating R at regional levels is challenging, so growth rates and incidence are also important metrics. These help in understanding the epidemic's status and managing outbreaks.

What does an R number of 3 indicate about the spread of an epidemic?

• Each infected person infects three others, causing rapid growth.

• The epidemic is stable with no growth.

• The epidemic is shrinking.

• Each infected person infects one other, maintaining the current size.

How is the R number calculated in the UK?

• By considering only the number of new cases.

• By averaging results from 13 different models.

• By using a single model.

• By using data from only one region.

What is the current R number range in the UK, and what does it imply?

• Between 1.1 and 1.3, indicating rapid growth.

• Between 0.7 and 0.9, indicating a decrease in epidemic size.

• Exactly 1, indicating stability.

• Above 1, indicating an increase in epidemic size.

Why is it challenging to determine the R number at regional levels?

• Due to a lack of data.

• Because regional data is always accurate.

• Because regional data is more complex and less comprehensive.

• Because the R number is not relevant at regional levels.

What role does the Joint Biosecurity Center play in managing epidemics?

• It predicts future pandemics.

• It provides medical treatment to infected individuals.

• It monitors outbreaks and clusters as overall numbers decrease.

• It calculates the R number for the entire country.