theweekuk--2020-03-16--Why do vaccines take so long to produce?

Donald Trump has angered European politicians after allegedly offering a German company $ 1bn ( £800m ) for exclusive rights to a future coronavirus vaccine .
The president ’ s offer prompted one German minister to warn Trump that “ Germany is not for sale ” , while the company in question – biopharmaceutical firm CureVac – says that any vaccine will be “ for the whole world and not individual countries ” .
The World Health Organization ( WHO ) has warned that it may be 18 months before a vaccine for the coronavirus is publicly available , despite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
So why does it take so long to develop a vaccine ?
As the BBC reports , vaccines work by introducing a small amount of a virus or bacteria to the immune system .
This means that when the body comes into contact with the illness for real , it recognises it as an “ invader ” and knows how to fight it .
This is how vaccinations for seasonal flu , measles , mumps and rubella are made , by introducing weak versions of those viruses – that can not cause @ @ @ @ @ @ @ system .
But , as the BBC ’ s health and science correspondent James Gallagher notes , the work to develop a coronavirus vaccine is using “ newer , and less tested , approaches called ‘ plug and play ’ vaccines ” .
This method sees scientists lifting sections of the coronavirus ’ s genetic code and putting it into other , totally harmless , viruses .
This , Gallagher reports , means that you can “ infect ” someone with the bug , giving some immunity against infection from the real coronavirus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ most important stories from around the world - and a concise , refreshing and balanced take on the week ’ s news agenda - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial subscription today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– What stage of development are we at ?
Rob Grenfell , director of health and biosecurity at Australia ’ s national science agency , writes that China first shared the genetic code of the virus in early January .
By late January , he says , the virus was successfully grown outside China for the first time .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ gain access to a live sample of the virus , kick-starting the “ plug and play ” experiments to develop a vaccine .
WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has said that a vaccine could be available within 18 months , but first scientists must understand the virus ’ s characteristics and behaviour in humans .
Once this is achieved , Grenfell says , animal testing can begin , before the vaccine is tested in trials using humans to ensure its safety .
The German company Trump allegedly tried to approach says that it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ developed by June or July .
This will then have to be extensively tested in human trials .
US-based biotechnology company Novavax began testing a number of new coronavirus vaccines on animals in late February .
It has been reported that these tests should identify the “ optimal ” vaccine to then test on humans .
Grenfell notes that vaccines have historically taken two to five years to develop .
However , he adds that with a global effort to produce a viable coronavirus vaccine , researchers could potentially develop a vaccine in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the challenges ?
As The Guardian reports , the timeline of 18 months for a vaccine assumes that “ there will be no hitches ” in the process of developing and testing .
Annelies Wilder-Smith , professor of emerging infectious diseases at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine , told the paper : “ Like most vaccinologists , I don ’ t think this vaccine will be ready before 18 months.
” As the paper notes , most vaccines take a decade or more to get regulatory approval , meaning that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” .
Another problem is that once developed , large quantities of the vaccines are going to be needed at very short notice .
This , the Guardian reports , could be a stumbling block as many organisations in the Covid-19 vaccine race “ simply don ’ t have the necessary production capacity ” .
Financing the research and production of a vaccine is also risky for pharmaceutical companies , as many candidates do not ever make it into production .
The global vaccine market is expected to grow to $ 60bn ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are by no means guaranteed in the field , mainly because of the money and time spent on the process of getting the drug to market .
However , as Grenfell notes , the knowledge gained by the global scientific community in the race to develop a vaccine following the 2003 Sars outbreak has given us a “ head-start ” on developing one for coronavirus .


theweekuk--2020-03-15--UK airlines call for multibillion-pound coronavirus bailout

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Bosses at British airlines are calling for a multibillion-pound emergency bailout to stop the industry being destroyed by the coronavirus.
Trade body Airlines UK has called for urgent action, saying the government’s “prevarication” and “bean counting” had to stop.
The chairman of Virgin Atlantic Airways’ majority shareholder, Virgin Group, will write to Prime Minister Boris Johnson today to warn that the sector needs immediate financial aid of up to £7.5bn to stay afload amid the ongoing pandemic.
The Guardian reports the funding could include “cash advances and guarantees” that credit card companies will not “withhold millions of pounds relating to payments that their customers have made for future flights and holidays”.
Sky News adds that this week could be “the bloodiest week in British aviation history”, with British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, easyJet and Ryanair all expected to announce “mass groundings of aircraft and potentially huge redundancies” as the pandemic continues.
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––For a round-up of the most important business stories and tips for the week’s best shares - try The Week magazine. Get your first six issues for £6–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
British Airways warned employees last week that the industry is facing a “crisis of global proportions” that was worse than that caused by the 2003 SARS outbreak or the 9/11 terror attacks on New York. In a memo titled “The Survival of British Airways”, BA boss Alex Cruz said that the airline is to ground flights “like never before”.
“This crisis is going to be grim,” said Jon Horne, president of the European Cockpit Association, which represents more than 40,000 European pilots. “It is neither a Gulf War, nor Sars, nor 9/11, or the 2008 financial crisis, but all of them together.”
The call for aid comes after the US announced that it will extend its ban on travel from the European Union to include the UK and Republic of Ireland.
The extended ban, which will begin tomorrow, will hit vital routes for British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and Norwegian Air. American Airlines has already announced that it is suspending nearly all of its long-haul international flights from today.
A UK government spokesman said: “We recognise how difficult the current situation is for the aviation sector and, across government, we are engaging with the sector’s leadership to support workers, businesses and passengers.”


theweekuk--2020-03-13--Coronavirus: everything you need to know

From symptoms to look out for and countries on lockdown to how the outbreak began – and might end

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theweekuk--2020-03-17--Sport shorts: Japan still aiming for ‘complete’ Olympics in Tokyo and NFL Draft goes ahead without p

Sport shorts: Japan still aiming for ‘complete’ Olympics in Tokyo and NFL Draft goes ahead without public events

Ahead of today ’ s meeting of the International Olympic Committee ( IOC ) , Japan ’ s Olympic minister Seiko Hashimoto has said that the country is still aiming to host the summer games on time and with fans in attendance , BBC Sport reports .
The coronavirus pandemic has seen international sport across the world cancelled but the Tokyo 2020 Olympics remain on the schedule for a 24 July start .
Hashimoto said : “ A complete Olympics is what we are aiming for .
We will do our utmost to prepare [ to hold the Olympics ] @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Committee will be convinced we are capable of hosting the games .
[ The event would be ] started on time and with spectators in attendance.
” 2 .
Grand National and Boat Races are off The two latest sporting events to be curtailed by coronavirus are the Boat Races on 29 March and Grand National on 4 April .
The Jockey Club said “ it is no longer appropriate ” to stage the National in the wake of the UK government ’ s advice against mass gatherings .
Sandy Dudgeon , senior @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : “ We were working on a plan to stage the Grand National behind closed doors given its importance to the racing industry and beyond .
But following the new government measures confirmed this evening to help to tackle the coronavirus outbreak , this is not a viable option.
” There is one major horse racing event that will go ahead .
The Dubai World Cup will be held on 28 March but there will be no fans at Meydan Racecourse .
A Dubai Racing Club statement said : “ Due to the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and precautionary measures being implemented by the UAE government , Dubai Racing Club will host the Dubai World Cup meeting on 28 March without paid hospitality spectators.
” ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise , balanced take on the week ’ s news - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has announced that the 2020 NFL Draft will go ahead as scheduled from 23-25 April but there are no events for the public in Las Vegas .
Goodell said @ @ @ @ @ @ @ priority - the health and safety of all fans and citizens .
While this outcome is disappointing both to the NFL and to the Las Vegas community , we look forward to partnering with the Raiders , the City of Las Vegas and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority for a future NFL Draft as well as evaluating opportunities for other major NFL events in Las Vegas in the future , including the Super Bowl.
” European football ’ s governing body , Uefa , is hosting a video conference with major @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a packed agenda .
The European Championships are expected to be postponed to the summer of 2021 in order that domestic leagues can be completed in May and June , but there is also the burning question about what to do with the Champions League and Europa League .
The BBC reports that the proposed Premier Golf League has suffered a “ near-fatal blow ” after being spurned by the world ’ s top three players .
World No.1 Rory McIlroy recently said he will remain with the PGA Tour and now Brooks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
American four-time major winner Koepka said : “ I am out of the PGL .
I ’ m going with the PGA Tour.
” Spaniard Rahm added : “ I think what I ’ m going to do is focus on just the PGA Tour .
At the end of the day I ’ m a competitor .
I ’ m a PGA Tour member and I ’ m going to stay that way.
” According to research by the CIES Football Observatory Liverpool are top of European football ’ s squad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ €1.4bn ( £1.27bn ) .
Man City are second ( €1.36bn/£1.23bn ) while La Liga rivals FC Barcelona ( €1.17bn/£1.06bn ) and Real Madrid ( €1.1bn/£1bn ) are third and fourth respectively .
£1.27bn : Liverpool are top of the table - for most valuable squad in Europe ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise , balanced take on the week ’ s news - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes has revealed that Cristiano Ronaldo is his idol @ @ @ @ @ @ @ United from Sporting Lisbon and the 25-year-old said of his Portugal team-mate : “ He [ Ronaldo ] welcomed me very well to the Portugal national team .
We look at him as an idol , he has always been an idol for me .
I followed his example , he is one of my favourites .
When I was called up by Portugal , he came to me saying , ‘ You are doing a good job at Sporting , I like it ’ .
Words like these make the difference.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ X factor to become an Old Trafford legend Man Utd have triggered a one-year option in Nemanja Matic ’ s contract .
The 31-year-old ’ s current deal was set to expire this summer but he is now tied to the club until 2021 .
It ’ s also reported that the Serbian is in talks with the Old Trafford bosses over a new deal .
According to the Daily Express there will be no England games for a year with the Daily Star also leading with the story on a back page @ @ @ @ @ @ @ caged ” .
It ’ s expected that Uefa will today scrap this summer ’ s European Championships in order to allow the completion of domestic leagues , the Champions League and Europa League in May and June .
The rearranged schedule will mean the abandonment of the 2021 Nations League competition , which is expected to be replaced by Euro 2020 .
England ’ s Three Lions are caged for a year ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise , balanced take on the week ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Start your trial today –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

1. Euro 2020 put back to 2021
European football’s governing body Uefa has today confirmed that Euro 2020 has been postponed until 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic.
The tournament, which was planned to be held in 12 locations this summer, will now take place on the proposed dates of 11 June to 11 July 2021.
Uefa president Aleksander Čeferin said: “We are at the helm of a sport that vast numbers of people live and breathe that has been laid low by this invisible and fast-moving opponent. It is at times like these, that the football community needs to show responsibility, unity, solidarity and altruism.
“The health of fans, staff and players has to be our number one priority and in that spirit, Uefa tabled a range of options so that competitions can finish this season safely and I am proud of the response of my colleagues across European football. There was a real spirit of co-operation, with everyone recognising that they had to sacrifice something in order to achieve the best result.
“It was important that, as the governing body of European football, Uefa led the process and made the biggest sacrifice. Moving Euro 2020 comes at a huge cost for Uefa but we will do our best to ensure that the vital funding for grassroots, women’s football and the development of the game in our 55 countries is not affected.
“Purpose over profit has been our guiding principle in taking this decision for the good of European football as a whole.”
2. Japan aims for ‘complete’ Olympics
Ahead of today’s meeting of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Japan’s Olympic minister Seiko Hashimoto has said that the country is still aiming to host the summer games on time and with fans in attendance, BBC Sport reports.
The coronavirus pandemic has seen international sport across the world cancelled but the Tokyo 2020 Olympics remain on the schedule for a 24 July start.
Hashimoto said: “A complete Olympics is what we are aiming for. We will do our utmost to prepare [to hold the Olympics] as scheduled so that the International Olympic Committee will be convinced we are capable of hosting the games. [The event would be] started on time and with spectators in attendance.”
3. Grand National and Boat Races are off
The two latest sporting events to be curtailed by coronavirus are the Boat Races on 29 March and Grand National on 4 April. The Jockey Club said “it is no longer appropriate” to stage the National in the wake of the UK government’s advice against mass gatherings.


theweekuk--2020-03-17--Bruno Fernandes: Man Utd’s new star has the X factor to become an Old Trafford legend

Bruno Fernandes has only been a Manchester United player since January but the Portugal star has made a massive impact since his arrival at Old Trafford .
Signed from Sporting Lisbon in the transfer window , Fernandes has so far made nine appearances in all competitions for the Red Devils , scoring three goals and providing four assists .
Fernandes ’ s contribution to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer ’ s side has not gone unnoticed by the critics and fans .
He was named the Premier League ’ s player of the month for February and also won the club ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s monthly award .
United boss Solskjaer recently said of his star signing : “ He works hard .
He ’ s humble enough , he ’ s got the desire , commitment , but he ’ s also got the X factor .
“ He ’ s a risk taker , he ’ s got courage , he ’ s brave enough to make mistakes and if you make enough mistakes they ’ ll be corrected into fantastic assists or goals.
” ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For analysis of the biggest sport stories - @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the week ’ s news - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Former Red Devils captain Roy Keane and ex-United defender Gary Neville have also been impressed with the 25-year-old playmaker .
Sky Sports pundit Neville said : “ Bruno Fernandes has made an impact beyond what anyone could have expected , not just in possession but out of possession .
The way he sprints and gets at people , he is hungry and it looks like it is rubbing off on people.
” Keane was equally complimentary and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at the club .
It is as if he has been there for 20 years .
He has got pure quality and it looks like he is going to be a big player for United for the next few years.
” Video of Keane and Neville praise the positive effect Bruno Fernandes has had on Manchester United Dalot : he can be a legend at this club Fellow Portuguese Diogo Dalot believes his new team-mate can become a “ legend ” at Old Trafford .
Dalot told the official Manchester United podcast : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a top player .
He is going to be a legend , no doubt about that .
“ He ’ s unbelievable , he can get better of course as well .
He ’ s going to learn a lot from this club .
I think he is a massive player to have in this team and he ’ s going to be a very good player for this club.
” Congratulations to @ B_Fernandes8 on winning the @ EASPORTSFIFA Player of the Month for February % uD83D % uDD34 % uD83C @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PLAwards pic.twitter.com/475tuPlc00 Fernandes : in his own words After winning the EPL player of the month Fernandes spoke to Sky Sports about the start of his United career and the praise received from club icons Keane and Neville .
In an interview with Cronache Di Spogliatoio he also spoke about his “ idol ” Cristiano Ronaldo .
Like Fernandes , Portugal skipper Ronaldo signed for the Old Trafford club from Sporting .
Here we look at what Fernandes had to say ... “ Since I was a kid it was a dream to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ there at Old Trafford is the biggest dream of my career .
When you come to a new club you always want to score and the first goal is special .
It doesn ’ t matter how the goal is scored , but the important thing is the goal ’ s worth .
I ’ m happy with my start , but from now I need to give more , to be better.
” His start to life at Old Trafford “ We can talk about a new start after Bruno but it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the team .
One player doesn ’ t change a team .
The team changes when everyone pushes together for the same side .
But the support I receive from the fans since the first day is amazing .
I listened to the song they do for me and I was like , ‘ I have been here for two days and I already have a song !
’ The love they give me in this first month is really good.
” % uD83C % uDFB6 Came from Sporting like Cristiano !
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ United new boy Bruno Fernandes is enjoying his new chant ... % uD83E % uDD23 pic.twitter.com/bCWgbLQO03 “ These are big words from a big player .
This is what I want to do in Manchester .
I want to be the best I can and , if it is possible , be remembered as one of the best in Manchester.
” “ When I react , when I lose the ball , I am angry and every time I want more .
This is the difference between me and some players .
If @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and if you want to be one of the best , you need to look for details .
I think if you have one , two , three or four players in the team who have that desire , you push the others and you need to push the others.
” “ At the training ground , you can find everything .
When I arrived for medicals , everything impressed me .
At Old Trafford you warm up with nobody in the stands , you hear nothing in the tunnel , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ hear an incredible noise .
If you talk about stadiums that everyone knows , the most historic are San Siro and Old Trafford.
” Why Ronaldo is his idol “ He [ Ronaldo ] welcomed me very well to the Portugal national team .
We look at him as an idol , he has always been an idol for me .
I followed his example , he is one of my favourites .
When I was called up by Portugal , he came to me saying , ‘ You are doing a good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ .
Words like these make the difference.
” ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise , balanced take on the week ’ s news - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial today –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Bruno Fernandes has only been a Manchester United player since January but the Portugal star has made a massive impact since his arrival at Old Trafford.
Signed from Sporting Lisbon in the transfer window, Fernandes has so far made nine appearances in all competitions for the Red Devils, scoring three goals and providing four assists.
Fernandes’s contribution to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side has not gone unnoticed by the critics and fans. He was named the Premier League’s player of the month for February and also won the club’s own fan-voted trophy and the PFA’s monthly award.
United boss Solskjaer recently said of his star signing: “He works hard. He’s humble enough, he’s got the desire, commitment, but he’s also got the X factor.
“He’s a risk taker, he’s got courage, he’s brave enough to make mistakes and if you make enough mistakes they’ll be corrected into fantastic assists or goals.”
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––For analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise, balanced take on the week’s news - try The Week magazine. Start your trial today –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Huge impact
Former Red Devils captain Roy Keane and ex-United defender Gary Neville have also been impressed with the 25-year-old playmaker.
Sky Sports pundit Neville said: “Bruno Fernandes has made an impact beyond what anyone could have expected, not just in possession but out of possession. The way he sprints and gets at people, he is hungry and it looks like it is rubbing off on people.”
Keane was equally complimentary and added: “He has lifted everybody at the club. It is as if he has been there for 20 years. He has got pure quality and it looks like he is going to be a big player for United for the next few years.”
Dalot: he can be a legend at this club
Fellow Portuguese Diogo Dalot believes his new team-mate can become a “legend” at Old Trafford. Dalot told the official Manchester United podcast: “He’s a top guy, a top player. He is going to be a legend, no doubt about that.
“He’s unbelievable, he can get better of course as well. He’s going to learn a lot from this club. I think he is a massive player to have in this team and he’s going to be a very good player for this club.”
Congratulations to @B_Fernandes8 on winning the @EASPORTSFIFA Player of the Month for February 🔴🇵🇹#PLAwards pic.twitter.com/475tuPlc00 — Premier League (@premierleague) March 16, 2020
Fernandes: in his own words
After winning the EPL player of the month Fernandes spoke to Sky Sports about the start of his United career and the praise received from club icons Keane and Neville.


theweekuk--2020-03-17--How the black death changed the world

How the black death changed the world

The Black Death is the world ’ s most infamous plague , killing an estimated 75m people and profoundly changing the way survivors lived their lives .
In Europe , the disease killed half the population , and completely wiped out some towns when it struck in Britain in 1348-49 .
But the Black Death returned regularly , first in 1361 and continuing - increasingly as an urban disease - until the Great Plague of 1665 in London .
Here is how it changed the world .
We know now that deaths caused by the plague ’ s first outbreak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , but those living through “ the pestilence ” at the time would have thought everybody would die .
As a result , “ moral and sexual codes were broken , while the marriage market was revitalised by those who had lost partners in the plague ” , says BBC History .
More importantly , it has been argued that the Black Death brought about the end of feudalism , the system in which peasants worked for lords in exchange for goods and land .
Within a year of the onset of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was introduced barring labourers from getting higher wages due to the shortage of workers .
In 1363 , another law was introduced banning lower classes from wearing high-quality cloth and attempting to limit their diet to basic foods .
These measures , aimed at suppressing the social aspirations of the lower classes , led in part to the Great Revolt of 1381 .
While the uprising failed to bring about revolution , it “ succeeded , however , as a protest against the taxation of poorer classes insofar as it prevented further levying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been introduced that year , says Britannica .
Cardinal Gasquet , a 19th-century English Benedictine monk and historical scholar , noted the rise of the middle class thanks to their accumulation of the wealth of those who had died .
Clergymen were no more immune to the disease than their less pious contemporaries .
Many of the clergy fell sick and died , while others deserted their posts and left their churches .
“ Distrust in God and the church , already in poor standing due to recent Papal scandals , grew as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to stop the spread of the disease and their family ’ s suffering , ” says Live Science .
Clergy killed by the disease were often replaced by far less literate and far more corrupt men .
This contributed to the decline in the church , and was partly what led to the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century .
Some historians believe that the wealthy were able to avoid the plague because they had the means to do the only thing known to avoid catching it : run away from it .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ disease entirely .
The Duke of Lancaster fell victim , as did one of King Edward III ’ s daughters , as well as nobles , archbishops and abbots .
The young and healthy – including children – were said by some to be particularly at risk .
Geoffrey le Baker , a chronicler at the time , noted this , writing “ the weak and elderly it generally spared ” .
But modern studies examining Black Death skeletons have found that the link between frailty and death , suggesting – as we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that people who were unwell before they caught the disease were more at risk .
“ It makes sense that the Black Death would kill people who are already weak , ” Sharon DeWitte , a biological anthropologist at the University at Albany , who made the discovery , told LiveScience .
“ It killed selectively .
Even with diseases as horribly devastating as the Black Death , even then there are differences in individuals ’ risk.
” The Black Death caused so many deaths that , even today , genetic diversity is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the 11th century , says New Scientist .
The plague also “ left a mark on the human genome , favouring those who carried certain immune system genes ” , says Science magazine .
“ Those changes may help explain why Europeans respond differently from other people to some diseases and have different susceptibilities to autoimmune disorders.
” Study leader Mihai Netea , a researcher in experimental internal medicine at Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center in the Netherlands , said modern-day analysis shows variation in genes between plague-hit areas , and places @ @ @ @ @ @ @ show that there are some immune receptors that are clearly influenced by evolution in Europe and not in northwest India , ” said Netea .
“ India did not have the medieval plague , as Europe had.
” The Black Death was a devastating disease , but from the darkness emerged one bright light .
The rise in wages following the plague meant that people had more disposable income , and they decided the best thing to buy with their new wages was ale .
“ That ’ s the origin of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ place , it ’ s not just that Mrs So-and-So brews beer occasionally and you can nip round and buy a farthing ’ s worth of beer , ” said professor Robert Tombs of the University of Cambridge in the Daily Mail .
“ Mrs So-and-So has now become a full-time brewer and her house is a public house and anyone can go in any time and drink and maybe eat and certainly socialise .
“ There have been endless changes in pubs , but that seems to be when it really started @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .

The Black Death is the world’s most infamous plague, killing an estimated 75m people and profoundly changing the way survivors lived their lives.
In Europe, the disease killed half the population, and completely wiped out some towns when it struck in Britain in 1348-49.
But the Black Death returned regularly, first in 1361 and continuing - increasingly as an urban disease - until the Great Plague of 1665 in London.
Here is how it changed the world.
Social effects
We know now that deaths caused by the plague’s first outbreak came to an end in around 1350, but those living through “the pestilence” at the time would have thought everybody would die.
As a result, “moral and sexual codes were broken, while the marriage market was revitalised by those who had lost partners in the plague”, says BBC History.
More importantly, it has been argued that the Black Death brought about the end of feudalism, the system in which peasants worked for lords in exchange for goods and land.
Within a year of the onset of the plague, in 1349, a law was introduced barring labourers from getting higher wages due to the shortage of workers. In 1363, another law was introduced banning lower classes from wearing high-quality cloth and attempting to limit their diet to basic foods.
These measures, aimed at suppressing the social aspirations of the lower classes, led in part to the Great Revolt of 1381.
While the uprising failed to bring about revolution, it “succeeded, however, as a protest against the taxation of poorer classes insofar as it prevented further levying of the poll tax” which had been introduced that year, says Britannica.
Cardinal Gasquet, a 19th-century English Benedictine monk and historical scholar, noted the rise of the middle class thanks to their accumulation of the wealth of those who had died.
Religion
Clergymen were no more immune to the disease than their less pious contemporaries. Many of the clergy fell sick and died, while others deserted their posts and left their churches.
“Distrust in God and the church, already in poor standing due to recent Papal scandals, grew as people realised that religion could do nothing to stop the spread of the disease and their family’s suffering,” says Live Science.


theweekuk--2020-03-17--Coronavirus: the difference between self-isolation, social distancing and shielding

Boris Johnson has announced unprecedented peacetime measures to combat the spread of coronavirus in the UK .
“ Normal life was put on hold ” after the prime minister last night urged all Britons to avoid pubs and restaurants , work from home where possible and to stop non-essential travel , reports The Times .
Speaking at Downing Street , he talked about a range of restrictions for different groups of people , from “ social distancing ” and “ self-isolation ” to “ shielding ” .
Here is a guide to what they mean .
Who is it for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those living in households with someone who shows symptoms .
What is the guidance ?
The official guidance says that anyone who has a new continuous cough and/or a high temperature should stay at home for seven days from when their symptoms start .
If you live with others and one person develops these symptoms , everyone must stay at home for 14 days from when the first person gets ill , to reduce the risk of infecting others .
For mild symptoms , stay away from GP surgeries , pharmacies and hospitals @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 111 and testing is not needed .
The advice is to remain at home , asking friends and family or delivery services to help you by leaving any food or medication on the doorstep .
Who is it for ?
Everyone .
What is the guidance ?
Johnson said “ now is the time for everyone to stop non-essential contact with others and to stop all unnecessary travel ” .
This means people should start working from home where possible and avoid large gatherings , as well as gatherings in smaller public spaces @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , theatres , bars and clubs .
The government advice is also to “ avoid gatherings with friends and family ” and “ keep in touch using remote technology such as phone , internet and social media ” .
It adds that “ everyone should be trying to follow these measures as much as is pragmatic ” .
More information on social distancing here .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For a round-up of the most important stories from around the world – and a concise , refreshing and balanced take on the week ’ s news @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Start your trial subscription today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Who is it for ?
People over 70 , those with certain health conditions who normally require the annual flu vaccination , and pregnant women .
What is the guidance ?
The PM said that the above social distancing measures were “ particularly important ” for these vulnerable people , but added that “ in a few days ’ time – by this coming weekend – it will be necessary to go further and to ensure that those with the most serious health conditions are largely shielded @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” .
More details are expected when this is announced .


theweekuk--2020-03-17--£1.27bn: Liverpool are top of the table - for most valuable squad in Europe

Liverpool are top and Manchester City are second - sound familiar? It’s not just the Premier League table where the Reds have an advantage over the Sky Blues...
According to research by the CIES Football Observatory Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool are top of European football’s squad valuation league with an aggregate value of €1.4bn (£1.27bn).
Man City are second (€1.36bn/£1.23bn) while La Liga rivals FC Barcelona (€1.17bn/£1.06bn) and Real Madrid (€1.1bn/£1bn) are third and fourth respectively.
The squads from Chelsea, Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, Atletico Madrid, Tottenham Hotspur and Juventus make up the top ten.
Before the coronavirus outbreak saw English football postponed until April Liverpool held a 25-point lead over Man City at the top of the Premier League.
Once the season resumes Klopp’s men will be within two victories of winning their first league title in 30 years.
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How the research works
The CIES Football Observatory study ranks clubs from the five major European leagues according to the value on the transfer market of players under contract.
CIES said: “The analysis takes into account the 20 players per club with the highest values as per the algorithm exclusively developed by the CIES Football Observatory research team. With an aggregated value of €1.4bn, Liverpool heads the table.
“Jurgen Klopp’s team outranks Manchester City, the two Spanish giants [Barcelona and Real Madrid] and Chelsea. The valuation of the latter team [Chelsea] has strongly increased thanks to the outbreak of many young talents following the transfer ban imposed by Fifa to the London club.”
European football’s top ten most valuable squads
1. Liverpool €1.4bn (£1.27bn)
2. Manchester City €1.36bn (£1.23bn)
3. FC Barcelona €1.17bn (£1.06bn)
4. Real Madrid €1.1bn (£1bn)
5. Chelsea €1.008bn (£914m)
6. Manchester United €1.007bn (£913.4m)
7. Paris Saint-Germain €979m (£890m)
8. Atletico Madrid €836m (£759.8m)
9. Tottenham Hotspur €787m (£714m)
10. Juventus €783m (£712.7m)
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theweekuk--2020-03-17--Ten Things You Need to Know Today: Tuesday 17 Mar 2020

Coronavirus is “ rapidly becoming ” the unknown “ disease X ” that scientists had warned about , a World @ @ @ @ @ expert has said .
WHO said in February 2018 that it was preparing for an @ @ @ @ @ disease X .
And Professor Marion Koopmans , head of viroscience at Erasmus University Medical @ @ @ @ @ said coronavirus fits the profile .

‘Rich to blame for climate change’, says study
A study of 86 nations by the University of Leeds has found that the rich are primarily to blame for man-made climate change. The wealthiest 10% of people on the planet use about 20 times more energy than the poorest 10%, wherever they live, the team says. This is particularly true of transport, as people on low incomes cannot afford to drive.


theweekuk--2020-03-17--D-day for Uefa: will the Champions League replace the Euros this summer?

European football’s governing body, Uefa, is hosting a video conference with major stakeholders today and it promises to be a packed agenda.
The European Championships are expected to be postponed to the summer of 2021 in order that domestic leagues can be completed in May and June, but there is also the burning question about what to do with the Champions League and Europa League.
Before coronavirus created havoc with international sport, the Champions League had been intriguingly poised.
Atletico Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Atalanta and RB Leipzig had already qualified for the quarter-finals, while three of the four remaining fixtures - Man City vs. Real Madrid, Napoli vs. Barcelona and Lyon vs. Juventus - are all finely balanced.
In the other tie Bayern Munich have all but guaranteed a place in the last eight after beating Chelsea 3-0 away at Stamford Bridge in the first leg.
Coronavirus: Italy calls for Uefa to postpone Euro 2020
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Mini-tournament
According to reports, one option that will be discussed at today’s conference is the possibility of a mini-tournament.
BBC Sport says Uefa wants the Champions League and Europa League “to reach a conclusion because they also have major broadcasting contracts to satisfy”, and there is the recognition that players and fans will be desperate to resume normality as quickly as possible once the stringent lockdowns across the continent have been lifted.
Like the Champions League, the Europa League has reached its last-16 stage, and one solution would be to play the quarter-finals and semi-finals as one-off games. However, it remains unclear what would happen to the second leg of the last-16 matches.
There is sure to be fierce opposition if Uefa decided to scrap the second leg and move straight to the quarter-final stage with the clubs who hold the aggregate lead progressing.
Summer showdown
The BBC says that Uefa will examine the feasibility of playing the quarter-finals and semis “over a handful of days as a mini-tournament - in Istanbul and Gdansk, host cities for this season’s finals”. This would reduce travelling demands and cause the least disruption to the domestic leagues.
Assuming that the Euros are cancelled, that would allow Uefa to use the four weeks set aside for the tournament - 12 June to 12 July - to complete domestic and European fixtures.
The BBC says that in terms of financial implications, the European Championships are of secondary importance because “most countries rely on the payments from Uefa that come out of major international tournaments to allow their own leagues to function properly”.
However, there are an estimated 400 staff working exclusively on the Euros and it is uncertain what would happen to them if the tournament is postponed until 2021.
Today’s back pages
England’s Three Lions are caged for a year and the Grand National and Boat Races are cancelled
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theweekuk--2020-03-17--Today’s back pages: England’s Three Lions are caged for a year and the Grand National and Boat Races

Today’s back pages: England’s Three Lions are caged for a year and the Grand National and Boat Races are cancelled

Southgate’s Three Lions are caged
According to the Daily Express there will be no England games for a year with the Daily Star also leading with the story on a back page headlined: “Gareth’s Lions caged”.
It’s expected that Uefa will today scrap this summer’s European Championships in order to allow the completion of domestic leagues, the Champions League and Europa League in May and June.
The rearranged schedule will mean the abandonment of the 2021 Nations League competition, which is expected to be replaced by Euro 2020.
As a consequence, Gareth Southgate’s England are unlikely to play again until the start of 2021 when they will require a series of friendlies to get themselves ready for the rescheduled European Championships.
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Grand National and Boat Race are off
The two latest sporting events to be curtailed by coronavirus are the Grand National and the Boat Race.
The Daily Mirror reports that the annual tussle on the Thames between the crews of Cambridge and Oxford Universities, which was scheduled for 29 March, has been cancelled.
“This decision is based entirely on our concern for the welfare of our crews, our spectators, our staff and volunteers,” said an official statement.
It will be the first time in 75 years that the rowing showdown will not take place.
‘Not a viable option’
As for the Grand National, which was due to be run at Aintree on 4 April, the Racing Post reports that too has fallen victim to the pandemic with the Jockey Club saying that “it is no longer appropriate to stage the event” in the wake of the government’s advice against mass gatherings.
There had been speculation at the weekend that the National would go ahead without spectators, but Sandy Dudgeon, senior steward of The Jockey Club, said that plan had now been abandoned.
“We were working on a plan to stage the Grand National behind closed doors given its importance to the racing industry and beyond,” he explained. “But following the new government measures confirmed this evening to help to tackle the coronavirus outbreak, this is not a viable option.”
It will be the first time the legendary race has not been run since 1993. That year animal rights protesters disrupted the start, prompting chaotic scenes that led to its cancellation and forced bookmakers to repay an estimated £75m in bets staked.
Today’s sport headlines
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theweekuk--2020-03-17--Do Boris Johnson’s new coronavirus measures mean he originally got it wrong?


theweekuk--2020-03-17--Apple fined record €1.1bn by French competition regulator

Apple has been fined €1.1bn ( £990m ) by antitrust regulators in France for anti-competitive agreements with two wholesalers .
The Guardian says the penalty imposed on the US tech giant is the largest ever handed out to a company by the Autorité de la Concurrence watchdog .
The regulator accused Apple of plotting with the two wholesalers , Tech Data and Ingram Micro , resulting in aligned prices and limited wholesale competition for Apple products such as Apple Mac computers and iPads .
The two French companies were also fined , with Tech Data handed a €76m ( £69.3m @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pay €63m ( £57.5m ) .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For a round-up of the most important stories from around the world - and a concise , refreshing and balanced take on the week ’ s news agenda - try The Week magazine .
Get your first six issues for £6 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– “ Together , ” reports TechCrunch , “ the three have achieved the dubious distinction of getting the highest-ever fine for anti-competitive sales tactics.
” Commenting on the record fine , Isabelle de Silva , head of the French competition watchdog , said : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to not compete against each other and prevent resellers from promoting competition between each other , thus sterilising the wholesale market for Apple products.
” Apple said it would appeal the decision , adding that the precedent would “ cause chaos for companies across all industries ” .
“ Apple has been operating in France for over 40 years and we are proud of our many contributions to job creation and economic development , ” said a spokesperson .
“ Our investment and innovation supports over 240,000 jobs across the country .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disheartening.
” Analysts have speculated that the judgement will lead to the company upping efforts to bring more of its sales under its own roof .
CNBC said yesterday ’ s announcement is the second fine that French authorities have imposed on Apple in two months .
Regulators also hit the US giant with a €25m ( £22.8m ) fine last month over its software updates , which were concluded to have slowed down older iPhones .

Apple has been fined €1.1bn (£990m) by antitrust regulators in France for anti-competitive agreements with two wholesalers.
The Guardian says the penalty imposed on the US tech giant is the largest ever handed out to a company by the Autorité de la Concurrence watchdog.
The regulator accused Apple of plotting with the two wholesalers, Tech Data and Ingram Micro, resulting in aligned prices and limited wholesale competition for Apple products such as Apple Mac computers and iPads.
The two French companies were also fined, with Tech Data handed a €76m (£69.3m) penalty and Ingram Micro ordered to pay €63m (£57.5m).
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––For a round-up of the most important stories from around the world - and a concise, refreshing and balanced take on the week’s news agenda - try The Week magazine. Get your first six issues for £6–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
“Together,” reports TechCrunch, “the three have achieved the dubious distinction of getting the highest-ever fine for anti-competitive sales tactics.”
Commenting on the record fine, Isabelle de Silva, head of the French competition watchdog, said: “Apple and its two wholesalers agreed to not compete against each other and prevent resellers from promoting competition between each other, thus sterilising the wholesale market for Apple products.”
Apple said it would appeal the decision, adding that the precedent would “cause chaos for companies across all industries”.
“Apple has been operating in France for over 40 years and we are proud of our many contributions to job creation and economic development,” said a spokesperson. “Our investment and innovation supports over 240,000 jobs across the country. The French Competition Authority’s decision is disheartening.”
Analysts have speculated that the judgement will lead to the company upping efforts to bring more of its sales under its own roof.
CNBC said yesterday’s announcement is the second fine that French authorities have imposed on Apple in two months.
Regulators also hit the US giant with a €25m (£22.8m) fine last month over its software updates, which were concluded to have slowed down older iPhones.


theweekuk--2020-03-17--Psychic says coronavirus is beginning of end for humanity

A London psychic has claimed that coronavirus is “the beginning of the end for humanity”. Nicolas Aujula claims he foresaw the crisis back in 2018, and that it is part of a long series of natural disasters that will combine to spell mankind’s doom. Don’t worry too much thought: he also said England would see a big football win this year - possibly the UEFA Euro tournament.
Fitness instructor holds class from roof during lockdown
A fitness instructor in Spain has got around the coronavirus lockdown by conducting lessons from a roof. The instructor leads an aerobic workout on top of an apartment complex in Seville, southern Spain, as others copy his moves from their own balconies. The Spanish government declared a state of emergency on Saturday.
Personalised number plate banned after complaint
A man in Canada is to appeal a new court ruling that bans his personalised license plate that bears his last name: Grabher. Lorne Grabher, of Nova Scotia, says he has been using his family name on his license plate without any problem for decades. The Department of Motor Vehicles has banned it after receiving a complaint claiming it promoted hated against women.
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theweekuk--2020-03-16--Global markets plunge as investors fear ‘cataclysmic recession’

Stock markets sunk yesterday despite central banks announcing a co-ordinated effort to ease the effects of the coronavirus .
London ’ s FTSE 100 index dropped more than 4 % , with other major European markets also suffering declines .
On Wall Street , US markets plunged more than 7 % , prompting an automatic suspension of trade in the minute after markets opened .
The Guardian reports that “ mounting concerns over a possible global recession ” triggered the falls , adding that they come “ despite dramatic action taken by the US central bank ” .
The Federal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ zero in an unprecedented attempt to shore up the US economy ” , the paper says .
In what The New York Times describes as a series of “ extraordinary steps ” , the Fed also announced that it would expand its balance sheet by at least $ 700bn ( £565bn ) in the coming weeks to help stabilise market confidence .
Investors now fear that the global economy “ could experience a downturn rivaling the cataclysmic recession after the financial crisis a decade ago ” , the paper adds .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stories and tips for the week ’ s best shares - try The Week magazine .
Get your first six issues for £6 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Dharshini David , global trade correspondent for the BBC , writes : “ Sunday ’ s extravaganza by the Fed showed how central banks can go big .
But interest rate cuts are of limited use ; they wo n't tempt customers to go out and spend in Marseille or New York when the bars are closed and flights cancelled.
” David Madden , a market analyst at CMC @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were trying to calm the markets , “ in reality it is having the opposite effect ” .
“ The radical measures have sent out a very worrying message to dealers , and that is why they are blindly dumping stocks.
” Paul Markham , global equities portfolio manager at the asset manager Newton Investment Management , said : “ As the last few weeks have unfolded there has been a growing fear that the world faces a perfect storm .
A strong nerve will be required and it may well get darker @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Things are getting ugly , ” added Neil Shearing , chief economist at the consultancy Capital Economics .
“ History suggests that equity markets are only likely to bottom out when it becomes clear that the flow of new cases of the virus has peaked .
Until this happens , we should expect stock markets to remain under pressure .
”

Stock markets sunk yesterday despite central banks announcing a co-ordinated effort to ease the effects of the coronavirus.
London’s FTSE 100 index dropped more than 4%, with other major European markets also suffering declines.
On Wall Street, US markets plunged more than 7%, prompting an automatic suspension of trade in the minute after markets opened.
The Guardian reports that “mounting concerns over a possible global recession” triggered the falls, adding that they come “despite dramatic action taken by the US central bank”.
The Federal Reserve “slashed interest rates to near zero in an unprecedented attempt to shore up the US economy”, the paper says.
In what The New York Times describes as a series of “extraordinary steps”, the Fed also announced that it would expand its balance sheet by at least $700bn (£565bn) in the coming weeks to help stabilise market confidence.
Investors now fear that the global economy “could experience a downturn rivaling the cataclysmic recession after the financial crisis a decade ago”, the paper adds.
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Dharshini David, global trade correspondent for the BBC, writes: “Sunday’s extravaganza by the Fed showed how central banks can go big. But interest rate cuts are of limited use; they won't tempt customers to go out and spend in Marseille or New York when the bars are closed and flights cancelled.”
David Madden, a market analyst at CMC Markets, said that while central bankers were trying to calm the markets, “in reality it is having the opposite effect”.
“The radical measures have sent out a very worrying message to dealers, and that is why they are blindly dumping stocks.”
Paul Markham, global equities portfolio manager at the asset manager Newton Investment Management, said: “As the last few weeks have unfolded there has been a growing fear that the world faces a perfect storm. A strong nerve will be required and it may well get darker before we see the light.”
“Things are getting ugly,” added Neil Shearing, chief economist at the consultancy Capital Economics.
“History suggests that equity markets are only likely to bottom out when it becomes clear that the flow of new cases of the virus has peaked. Until this happens, we should expect stock markets to remain under pressure.”


theweekuk--2020-03-16--Coronavirus: Virgin Atlantic tells staff to take unpaid leave


theweekuk--2020-03-16--Netanyahu accused of exploiting coronavirus to delay corruption trial

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been accused of exploiting the coronavirus to postpone his upcoming corruption trial .
The hearing is being delayed by more than two months because of new restrictions introduced to contain the coronavirus .
Many have pointed out that the restrictions - including bans on gatherings of more than 10 people in public places - had been announced by Netanyahu himself .
Netanyahu , who lost in the September 2019 Israeli election , has also called for a national emergency government to deal with the impact of the epidemic .
The controversial Israeli leader was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wealthy friends and offering to exchange favours with powerful media moguls .
He denies any wrongdoing and insists he is the victim of a media-orchestrated witch hunt .
However , he has been accused of exploiting the outbreak for “ personal political needs ” , by opposition MP Moshe Ya ’ alon .
“ Whoever criticized us for warning we would turn into Erdogan ’ s Turkey should digest and internalize the cynical exploitation of the coronavirus , for personal political needs , by a defendant before his trial , ” Ya ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a round-up of the most important stories from around the world - and a concise , refreshing and balanced take on the week ’ s news agenda - try The Week magazine .
Get your first six issues for £6 ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Netanyahu has said that a government of national unity should be formed , including all of the parties in the Knesset , Israel ’ s parliament .
As CNN highlights , the call to unite does not extend to “ the Arab parties ” .
“ In light of the world and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our strength and form a strong and stable government that can pass a budget and take tough decisions , ” Netanyahu said .
Supporters of the prime minister are massing around him , CNN reports , as they “ see him as uniquely qualified to lead the country in this time of need ” .
“ To them , the coronavirus is one more challenge Netanyahu is sure to overcome , ” the broadcaster adds .
This is echoed by Middle East Eye , which reports that “ Benjamin Netanyahu will go down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ saved by coronavirus ” .
“ The virus that attacks the respiratory system serves for now as Netanyahu ’ s respiratory machine ” , the news site says .
The pandemic is providing “ the necessary amount of oxygen [ for him to ] remain in office and out of the courtroom ” , it adds .
However , Ben Caspit , author of The Netanyahu Years , told CNN that it is “ impossible to disconnect his call for an ‘ emergency government ’ or a ‘ unity government ’ from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ muster a majority ” .
Caspit , a longstanding critic of the Israeli prime minister , added that Netanyahu has “ thrice been unsuccessful in his bid to get reelected ... [ but ] refuses to hand over the reins .
He added that Netanyahu is now “ exploiting a national crisis to retain his grip on power ” .
On Sunday , Israel ’ s president announced that opposition leader Benny Gantz , of the Blue and White party , had received enough support from lawmakers to attempt to form his own @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s manoeuvring , writing on Twitter : “ Netanyahu , let 's not manipulate the public .
If you 're interested in unity , why postpone your trial at 1 a.m. and send an ‘ emergency unity ’ outline to the press , rather than sending your negotiating team to a meeting .
”


theweekuk--2020-03-16--Boris Johnson: first 100 days examined

Boris Johnson: first 100 days examined

When Boris Johnson and the Conservative party swept to a stunning victory in the UK general election in December last year , it looked as if the dust was finally ready to settle after years of Brexit-fuelled turmoil in the halls of Parliament .
But now , as we approach 100 days since that historic victory , the political landscape of both Britain and the world at large are barely recognisable .
From US President Donald Trump bringing the planet perilously close to the outbreak of World War III to an unprecedented pandemic that has severely disrupted almost every facet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first century of days since the election has been extraordinarily eventful – perhaps more so than any prime minister in modern history .
With the country gearing up for a potentially devastating effort to curb the spread of the coronavirus through herd immunity – another controversial Johnson policy decision – it ’ s likely that this outbreak could define his legacy as a leader .
But what has his premiership looked like until this point ?
The Week examines his first 100 days with a parliamentary majority .
After a tumultuous and often @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Corbyn ’ s highly polarising Labour Party , the UK electorate on 12 December handed Johnson an emphatic majority in the general election , with Tories winning swathes of historically Labour-held seats in the North , surpassing even his own campaign ’ s expectations to secure a resounding victory .
Prior to the election , Johnson had stated that his plans for the first 100 days of his new government would focus on leaving the EU and passing a tax-cutting post-Brexit budget which would include a rise in the National Insurance threshold which @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
He also claimed that new laws would be passed to end the automatic release of serious violent and sexual offenders at the halfway point of their sentences , while other measures being touted by the Tories included improving mobile phone signals in the countryside and increasing funding for schools .
The Queen ’ s Speech , which serves as the centrepiece of the new session of Parliament , was held around a week later on 19 December .
In it , proposed new laws on Brexit and the NHS took centre stage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also including additional funding for adult and social care , legislation to send terrorists to prison for longer , and a “ modern , fair points-based immigration system ” .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For a round-up of the most important stories from around the world – and a concise , refreshing and balanced take on the week ’ s news agenda – try The Week magazine .
Start your trial subscription today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– The first major challenge of Johnson ’ s new government arose in January 2020 , when Qasem Soleimani , the leader of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Force , was killed by a drone strike in Iraq in an attack ordered by US President Donald Trump .
The strike sparked a major diplomatic crisis between Washington and Tehran , with shadow foreign secretary Emily Thornberry telling Sky News that the situation was “ a major lurch towards war ” – one which many feared the UK would become embroiled in after Johnson expressed sympathy for the assassination by claiming Soleimani had played a “ leading role [ in ] the deaths of thousands of innocent civilians and Western personnel ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ strikes between the US and Iran – along with Iranian public opinion turning against the government following the accidental shooting-down of Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 – the situation petered out and war was avoided .
The Tories ’ gigantic margin of victory in December ’ s general election can be pinned on a number of factors , but few were as pivotal as Johnson ’ s pledge to finally “ Get Brexit Done ” after three-and-a-half years of delay following the 2016 referendum .
In January , Boris Johnson said the UK @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” after Parliament passed legislation that paves the way for the country to leave the EU , with the bill receiving royal assent on 23 January .
On 31 January , the UK finally left the EU , sparking the beginning of a months-long transition period which lasts until the end of 2020 .
The prime minister said the UK could now “ move forwards as one ” and put “ years of rancour and division behind it ” .
In February , Johnson carried out a sweeping reshuffle of cabinet ministers , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Theresa Villiers all being sacked .
More controversial , however , was the sacking of Julian Smith as Northern Ireland secretary “ despite his overseeing the restoration of the Northern Ireland assembly following three years of deadlock ” , The Guardian reports .
But the most problematic consequence of the reshuffle for Johnson was Sajid Javid ’ s shock decision to quit as Chancellor of the Exchequer in the middle of the process , having rejected the prime minister 's order to fire his team of aides .
Rishi Sunak , who just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minister , was appointed in his place .
Starting in November 2019 , parts of the UK were inundated with some of the heaviest average monthly rainfall since records began , with particularly bad spells in February as a result of Storms Ciara and Dennis .
As far back as December , Johnson has come under considerable fire for his supposed inaction with regard to the flooding , having not visited the worst-hit areas .
Luke Pollard , shadow environment secretary , said in February that it was a “ disgrace ” that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ while Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn accused him in parliament of being a “ part-time prime minister ” .
In February and March , Home Secretary Priti Patel faced a wave of bullying allegations after a number of senior civil servants claimed they were mistreated by the controversial politician when she was the secretary of state for international development .
The Guardian quotes sources claiming that the home secretary “ harassed and belittled ” staff in her private office in 2017 – allegations she denies , but ones that increased pressure on Johnson to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ early March , Boris Johnson made the decision to launch a Cabinet Office investigation into the claims Patel had lied and bullied her permanent secretary , Sir Philip Rutnam , but added that he “ absolutely ” has confidence in Patel .
The biggest crisis of Johnson ’ s tenure has come as a result of the ongoing coronavirus outbreak , his response to which has earned him no shortage of criticism .
As Politico notes , the UK under Johnson “ has been something of an outlier in terms of its response @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to follow other countries in shutting schools and public meeting places and instead falling back on a highly contentious “ herd immunity ” strategy which many scientists say threatens the lives of thousands .
On Monday , Johnson appeared to make something of a U-turn , telling the public to avoid all unnecessary contact and travel and to stay away from public spaces .
But to many , including Frances Ryan in The Guardian , the “ result of all this has been at best unanswered questions , and at worst frantic confusion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on Monday , # ResignBorisJohnson began trending on Twitter , with many users condemning his response to the crisis .
In the midst of the coronavirus crisis , Johnson ’ s newly appointed chancellor Rishi Sunak unveiled his first Budget , in which he appeared to end years of government-sanctioned austerity by pledging billions in order to make to Tories “ the party of public services ” , as he put it .
The spending plan includes a £30bn stimulus package to counter the economic impact of the coronavirus outbreak , with Sunak @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it costs ” to help the NHS tackle the crisis .
BBC political editor Laura Kuenssberg says the £12bn announced to tackle coronavirus in last week ’ s Budget is starting to look “ completely inadequate ” , with the government due to announce more financial measures later today .

When Boris Johnson and the Conservative party swept to a stunning victory in the UK general election in December last year, it looked as if the dust was finally ready to settle after years of Brexit-fuelled turmoil in the halls of Parliament. But now, as we approach 100 days since that historic victory, the political landscape of both Britain and the world at large are barely recognisable. From US President Donald Trump bringing the planet perilously close to the outbreak of World War III to an unprecedented pandemic that has severely disrupted almost every facet of modern life, Johnson’s first century of days since the election has been extraordinarily eventful – perhaps more so than any prime minister in modern history. With the country gearing up for a potentially devastating effort to curb the spread of the coronavirus through herd immunity – another controversial Johnson policy decision – it’s likely that this outbreak could define his legacy as a leader. But what has his premiership looked like until this point? The Week examines his first 100 days with a parliamentary majority. The election After a tumultuous and often ugly battle between the Conservatives and Jeremy Corbyn’s highly polarising Labour Party, the UK electorate on 12 December handed Johnson an emphatic majority in the general election, with Tories winning swathes of historically Labour-held seats in the North, surpassing even his own campaign’s expectations to secure a resounding victory. Prior to the election, Johnson had stated that his plans for the first 100 days of his new government would focus on leaving the EU and passing a tax-cutting post-Brexit budget which would include a rise in the National Insurance threshold which would save workers around £85 a year. He also claimed that new laws would be passed to end the automatic release of serious violent and sexual offenders at the halfway point of their sentences, while other measures being touted by the Tories included improving mobile phone signals in the countryside and increasing funding for schools. Queen’s Speech The Queen’s Speech, which serves as the centrepiece of the new session of Parliament, was held around a week later on 19 December. Skip advert
In it, proposed new laws on Brexit and the NHS took centre stage, with Johnson’s 2020 programme also including additional funding for adult and social care, legislation to send terrorists to prison for longer, and a “modern, fair points-based immigration system”. –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––For a round-up of the most important stories from around the world – and a concise, refreshing and balanced take on the week’s news agenda – try The Week magazine. Start your trial subscription today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Iran The first major challenge of Johnson’s new government arose in January 2020, when Qasem Soleimani, the leader of the Iranian Revolutionary Guards' elite Quds Force, was killed by a drone strike in Iraq in an attack ordered by US President Donald Trump. The strike sparked a major diplomatic crisis between Washington and Tehran, with shadow foreign secretary Emily Thornberry telling Sky News that the situation was “a major lurch towards war” – one which many feared the UK would become embroiled in after Johnson expressed sympathy for the assassination by claiming Soleimani had played a “leading role [in] the deaths of thousands of innocent civilians and Western personnel”. But after an exchange of missile strikes between the US and Iran – along with Iranian public opinion turning against the government following the accidental shooting-down of Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 – the situation petered out and war was avoided. Getting Brexit done The Tories’ gigantic margin of victory in December’s general election can be pinned on a number of factors, but few were as pivotal as Johnson’s pledge to finally “Get Brexit Done” after three-and-a-half years of delay following the 2016 referendum. In January, Boris Johnson said the UK has “crossed the Brexit finish line” after Parliament passed legislation that paves the way for the country to leave the EU, with the bill receiving royal assent on 23 January. On 31 January, the UK finally left the EU, sparking the beginning of a months-long transition period which lasts until the end of 2020. The prime minister said the UK could now “move forwards as one” and put “years of rancour and division behind it”. Reshuffle In February, Johnson carried out a sweeping reshuffle of cabinet ministers, with Andrea Leadsom, Geoffrey Cox and Theresa Villiers all being sacked. More controversial, however, was the sacking of Julian Smith as Northern Ireland secretary “despite his overseeing the restoration of the Northern Ireland assembly following three years of deadlock”, The Guardian reports. Skip advert


theweekuk--2020-03-17--Britons to avoid non-essential travel: what should holidaymakers do?

Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab has advised Brits to avoid all non-essential travel anywhere in the world for at least 30 days .
Addressing the House of Commons , Raab said the decision followed the prime minister ’ s announcement yesterday that everyone should avoid non-essential social contact with others , as well as avoiding pubs , clubs and restaurants .
Raab told the Commons that the decision was a response to “ fast-changing international circumstances ” , including the growing number of countries that have shut their borders .
He added : “ UK travellers abroad now face widespread international @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” What happens next ?
Raab said that the advice is aimed at “ reduc [ ing ] the risk of leaving vulnerable British travellers stranded overseas ” , but added that anyone deciding to travel would have to take responsibility for any consequences should they be unable to return home .
In a statement , the Foreign Office said that anyone still considering going abroad should “ be realistic about the level of disruption they are willing and able to endure ” .
The foreign secretary also said that the government will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many tourists .
“ No one should be under any illusions .
It is costly , it is expensive to coordinate , ” he said .
Responding to this news , Labour foreign secretary , Emily Thornberry , labelled the government ’ s decision to leave individual travellers stranded abroad “ a chronic failure of global leadership and coordination ” .
The only type of travel not included in the advice is international haulage and freight , which Raab said is considered “ essential ” .
What if your holiday is disrupted ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ trigger for holiday insurance paying out is if the Foreign Office formally advises against travel ” .
Now that has happened , the site reports that “ you will be able to claim on most , but not all , travel insurance policies , even if your flight and hotel are still available ” .
However , the site notes that insurance companies such as Admiral , Churchill and Direct Line have stopped selling travel insurance policies altogether owing to the current unpredictability .
This means that if you did not get insurance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Book ) ” you may now struggle to find cover .
Many insurance companies will also only pay out if you got the insurance before the country was ruled off-limits , the site says , meaning that you may now be out of pocket .
An exception to this is if you booked a package holiday , which should be protected by Abta or Atol .
You should therefore receive a full refund or you can choose to rebook for another time , although a sensible time to rebook is unclear .
What @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Independent reports that if only your flight is cancelled as a result of the government advice , your airline should be in touch via email or text with what to do next .
Under European air passengers ’ rights legislation , the airline is required to find and pay for alternative transport for you and , sometimes , offer food and accommodation if you are left stranded .
In reality , the paper adds , the overwhelming number of passengers affected by coronavirus may mean that you will receive a refund but will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own steam .
Due to the large numbers of people contacting airline helplines , you 're advised to check the carrier 's website for any updates first .
What if I have a summer holiday booked ?
The best advice right now is to wait and see what happens .
This , The Daily Telegraph notes , is especially true if you have to pay a fee or lose your deposit if you cancel now .
China , where the virus originated , seems to be gaining control over its spread with just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time of writing .
While Europe is seeing the virus spread more rapidly , it is at an earlier stage in the pandemic than China .
There is no concrete timescale for when the coronavirus will end and , as money-saving expert Martin Lewis writes , booking “ further out is trickier ” .
“ Summer holidays are four months away – the first Covid-19 case was only reported to the World Health Organization two months ago .
This shows things can change quickly and many more countries may be off limits in @ @ @


theweekuk--2020-03-17--NFL: Tom Brady is leaving the New England Patriots - what next for the ‘goat’?

Six-time Super Bowl winner Tom Brady is searching for a new NFL franchise after announcing his departure from the New England Patriots .
The 42-year-old quarterback , who is regarded as the greatest of all time ( goat ) , was a free agent following the expiry of his contract in New England .
Brady joined the Pats in 2000 and as well as winning six Super Bowls in nine appearances , he was also named Super Bowl MVP a record four times and NFL MVP three times .
In his 20-year spell with the Patriots he threw for 74,571 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Robert Kraft said : “ We had a positive , respectful discussion .
It ’ s not the way I want it to end , but I want him to do what is in his best personal interest .
After 20 years with us , he has earned that right .
I love him like a son.
” ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise , balanced take on the week ’ s news - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– After the announcement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on social media , Yahoo Sports called it a historic day in NFL history .
Yahoo ’ s Frank Schwab said : “ Everyone knew that was a possibility as Brady hit free agency for the first time at age 42 , but it was still a shock to see him announce it on Tuesday morning with a statement titled ‘ Forever a Patriot ’ on his social media channels .
“ No matter what happens next , Tuesday will be remembered as a historic day in the NFL .
Brady is no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s words , Patriots.com writer Mike Dussault said : “ While Brady ’ s departure from the Pats was always a possibility , it ’ s truly shocking that his time in New England is now coming to an end .
“ For the Patriots , it will be a seismic shift and in the coming days their plans for rebuilding the offense post-Brady will continue to take shape.
” “ To all my teammates , coaches , executives , and staff , Coach Belichick , RKK , and the Kraft family @ @ @ @ @ @ @ want to say thank you for the past twenty years of my life and the daily commitment to winning and creating a winning culture built on great values .
“ I am grateful for all that you have taught me - I have learned from everyone .
You all have allowed me to maximise my potential and that is all a player can ever hope for .
“ Everything we have accomplished brings me great joy and the lessons I have learned will carry on with me forever .
I couldn ’ t @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the relationships you have allowed me to build with you .
“ I have benefited from all you have given me .
I cherished every opportunity I had to be a part of our team , and I love you all for that .
Our team has always set a great standard in pro sports and I know it will continue to do just that .
“ Pats Nation will always be a part of me , I don ’ t know what my football future holds .
It is time for me @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life and career .
“ Although my football journey will take place elsewhere , I appreciate everything that we have achieved and am grateful for your incredible TEAM accomplishments .
“ I have been privileged to have had the opportunity to know each and every one of you , and to have the memories we ’ ve created together.
” Where next for Brady ?
As mentioned in his statement , Brady ’ s football journey will now “ take place elsewhere ” and Sky Sports report that the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the free agent .
According to NFL Network Insider ’ s Ian Rapoport the Buccaneers have made a “ strong offer ” to Brady which is believed to be $ 30m ( £24.8m ) or more .
Meanwhile , ESPN ’ s Adam Schefter said Brady is “ exploring his options ” .
Schefter tweeted : “ Despite today ’ s proclamation that he would not be returning to New England , Tom Brady has not made a decision on where he will play next season and he will be exploring his options @ @ @ @ @ @ @ writer Mike Dussault says wherever Brady goes he will now follow in the footsteps of another legendary quarterback .
“ It ’ s unclear where Brady will end up , with Tampa Bay and the Los Angeles Chargers the two most likely destinations , ” said Dussault .
“ It ’ s hard to imagine him in another uniform , but Brady will join the likes of his hero Joe Montana by finishing his career for a different team.
” ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ news - try The Week magazine .
Start your trial today –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Six-time Super Bowl winner Tom Brady has announced his departure from the New England Patriots.
The 42-year-old quarterback, who is regarded as the greatest of all time (goat), was a free agent following the expiry of his contract in New England.
Brady joined the Pats in 2000 and as well as winning six Super Bowls in nine appearances, he was also named Super Bowl MVP a record four times and NFL MVP three times. In his 20-year spell with the Patriots he threw for 74,571 yards and 541 touchdowns.
Patriots owner Robert Kraft said: “We had a positive, respectful discussion. It’s not the way I want it to end, but I want him to do what is in his best personal interest. After 20 years with us, he has earned that right. I love him like a son.”
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––For analysis of the biggest sport stories - and a concise, balanced take on the week’s news - try The Week magazine. Start your trial today –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
‘A seismic shift’
After the announcement was made by the American football star on social media, Yahoo Sports called it a historic day in NFL history.
Yahoo’s Frank Schwab said: “Everyone knew that was a possibility as Brady hit free agency for the first time at age 42, but it was still a shock to see him announce it on Tuesday morning with a statement titled ‘Forever a Patriot’ on his social media channels.
“No matter what happens next, Tuesday will be remembered as a historic day in the NFL. Brady is no longer the Patriots quarterback.”
Echoing Schwab’s words, Patriots.com writer Mike Dussault said: “While Brady’s departure from the Pats was always a possibility, it’s truly shocking that his time in New England is now coming to an end.
“For the Patriots, it will be a seismic shift and in the coming days their plans for rebuilding the offense post-Brady will continue to take shape.
“It’s hard to imagine him in another uniform, but Brady will join the likes of his hero Joe Montana by finishing his career for a different team.”
What Brady said
“To all my teammates, coaches, executives, and staff, Coach Belichick, RKK, and the Kraft family, and the entire organisation: I want to say thank you for the past twenty years of my life and the daily commitment to winning and creating a winning culture built on great values.


theweekuk--2020-03-17--Coronavirus: when will schools close?

Coronavirus: when will schools close?

The UK government has left parents and teachers confused after it told people to avoid even small gatherings , but stopped short of closing schools .
In his daily address on the unfolding coronavirus pandemic on Monday , Prime Minister Boris Johnson urged the public to avoid all unnecessary contact and travel , and to stay away from pubs , theatres and other public places .
However , despite considerable pressure , no closure of schools was announced .
Some parents have begun taking children out of school , while over 650,000 people have signed a petition calling for government @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appropriate amount of time amidst COVID19 ” .
But will this force the government ’ s hand ?
Last week , Johnson said scientists advised that closing schools “ could do more harm than good ” .
Sky News reports that schools are being “ advised to cancel trips abroad , and children are included in the new advice ” , which says that anyone with a continuous cough and/or a high temperature must stay at home for 14 days .
The prime minister added that “ lines of defence ” must be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the full effect .
Johnson stated : “ The most important task will be to protect our elderly and most vulnerable people during the peak weeks when there is the maximum risk of exposure to the disease and when the NHS will be under the most pressure.
” What do experts say ?
Professor Neil Ferguson , of Imperial College London and director of the MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis , who has been a key figure in the modelling of the spread of coronavirus , has said that shutting schools @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Speaking to the BBC Radio 4 Today programme on Tuesday , Ferguson said : “ From a purely epidemiological perspective we think , with a lot of uncertainty , that closing schools and universities would further reduce transmission .
“ I have to say we don ’ t fully understand whether children are transmitting this virus in the same way they would transmit other viruses but , assuming that , it would have an impact.
” The government is now facing growing questions over why it has stopped short of closing schools @ @ @ @ @ @ @ European country has taken .
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– For a round-up of the most important stories from around the world – and a concise , refreshing and balanced take on the week ’ s news agenda – try The Week magazine .
Start your trial subscription today ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– What do parents and teachers say ?
Late last week , the National Education Union ( NEU ) – the largest education union in Europe – wrote to the prime minister calling on him to clarify why he has not closed schools , laying out staff concerns @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s joint general secretaries , Mary Bousted and Kevin Courtney , wrote : “ Every day we are getting increasing numbers of questions from teachers and support staff asking why the Westminster government isn ’ t following the pattern of other countries in calling for periods of school closure .
“ Those questions are increasingly asking why schools aren ’ t closing if mass gatherings are to be suspended.
” And this week the questioning ramped up considerably after Johnson once again refused to close schools , despite telling the public to avoid @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the inaction , parents have reportedly begun “ taking the decision into their own hands ” , HuffPost UK says , and are “ flouting official advice by keeping their children off school to protect their health ” .
But the site notes that the “ prospect of getting fined for failing to send their children to school is worrying many parents ” , adding that a petition entitled “ No prosecution for parents that remove child from school during a pandemic ” has already reached close to 80,000 signatures .
Schools Week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are holding frequent talks with Education Secretary Gavin Williamson to discuss plans for schools and colleges .
On Monday , Williamson met Geoff Barton , the leader of the Association of School and College Leaders ( ASCL ) and Paul Whiteman , who heads up the National Association of Head Teachers ( NAHT ) .
In a statement published later , the pair said they had a “ very productive meeting ” with the minister , adding that it was “ likely that a number of schools will have to close ” in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pair also stated they were concerned “ about the implications for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities as well as children who receive free school meals if a school is closed or they have to self-isolate , and similarly , the wellbeing of vulnerable young people where there are identified safeguarding risks ” .
“ There is also the crucial question of SATs , GCSE and A-level exams which are scheduled in May and June , ” they said .
“ We must move quickly to provide clarity and address the obvious @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about what may or may not happen , and what contingencies are in place to deal with the inevitable disruption.
” However , the government ’ s hand could be forced by teachers and parents when it comes to closures .
The Guardian reports that “ growing numbers of schools in England could be forced to close and send children home as a result of staff shortages ” as “ teachers with symptoms follow government guidance to self-isolate ” .

The UK government has left parents and teachers confused after it told people to avoid even small gatherings, but stopped short of closing schools.
In his daily address on the unfolding coronavirus pandemic on Monday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson urged the public to avoid all unnecessary contact and travel, and to stay away from pubs, theatres and other public places. However, despite considerable pressure, no closure of schools was announced.
Some parents have begun taking children out of school, while over 650,000 people have signed a petition calling for government to “Close Schools/Colleges down for an appropriate amount of time amidst COVID19”.
But will this force the government’s hand?
Why isn’t the government closing schools?
Last week, Johnson said scientists advised that closing schools “could do more harm than good”.
Sky News reports that schools are being “advised to cancel trips abroad, and children are included in the new advice”, which says that anyone with a continuous cough and/or a high temperature must stay at home for 14 days.
The prime minister added that “lines of defence” must be deployed at the right time to have the full effect.
Johnson stated: “The most important task will be to protect our elderly and most vulnerable people during the peak weeks when there is the maximum risk of exposure to the disease and when the NHS will be under the most pressure.”
What do experts say?
Professor Neil Ferguson, of Imperial College London and director of the MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, who has been a key figure in the modelling of the spread of coronavirus, has said that shutting schools would reduce the transmission of the disease.
Speaking to the BBC Radio 4 Today programme on Tuesday, Ferguson said: “From a purely epidemiological perspective we think, with a lot of uncertainty, that closing schools and universities would further reduce transmission.
“I have to say we don’t fully understand whether children are transmitting this virus in the same way they would transmit other viruses but, assuming that, it would have an impact.”
The government is now facing growing questions over why it has stopped short of closing schools – a measure that almost every other European country has taken.


theweekuk--2020-03-17--Can you catch coronavirus twice?

Can you catch coronavirus twice?

Contracting Covid-19 gives “at least as good” an immune defence against infection as a vaccine for up to five months, according to a study of 21,000 healthcare workers.
Researchers at Public Health England (PHE) found that recovered Covid patients had around 85% protection against both asymptomatic and symptomatic reinfection.
The study tracked 6,600 clinical staff infected last spring, along with 14,000 who had remained healthy, regularly testing them for Covid-19. By November, 318 infections were recorded among those who had not ever had the virus, compared to 44 reinfections. PHE also found that in the latter group, reinfection produced mild or no symptoms.
Susan Hopkins, deputy director of the national infections service at PHE, said: “Overall I think this is good news, it allows people to feel that their prior infection will protect them from future infections, but at the same time it is not complete protection and therefore they still need to be careful when they’re out and about.”
How long such immunity lasts is an open question, with the PHE study finding that while the immunity appeared to last five months, it could fade. “The immune system’s memory is rather like our own - it remembers some infections clearly, but has a habit of forgetting others,” the BBC reports.
Researchers said that the findings are “not a licence to ignore social distancing”, The Times adds, as the immunity will wear off and you could still be infectious to others.
Last August, scientists in Hong Kong reported the “world first” case of a healthy man in his 30s who became reinfected with coronavirus almost five months after he initially contracted the disease. Scientists said genome sequencing indicated that the man had two strains of virus that were “clearly different”, the New Scientist reported at the time, apparently confirming a case of reinfection.
The British government’s chief scientific adviser, Patrick Vallance, has also previously said that while multiple infections can happen, “they’re rare”. “In any infectious disease there are cases where people can catch something again,” Vallance said. “There’s nothing to suggest that this is a common occurrence in this disease but we are learning as we go along.”