it's very important to recognize that, even if there were, say, a 50% reduction in the rate of hospitalisation, because it's doubling every two days, that 50% will soon just be overwhelmed by the increasing case numbers. so, the total impact of 0micron is still very, very significant, because it's such a highly transmissible virus and it's growing so quickly. in the face of rapidly rising infections, record numbers of boosters are now being administered. 30 million have beenjabbed so far. from the new year, boosters will be offered to all over—16s, as well as at—risk 12 to 15—year—olds, those living with someone with a weakened immune system, and teenagers who are immunosuppressed themselves will get a fourth jab. for the first time, 5 to 11—year—olds in the uk, with specific health conditions, will be offered two smaller doses of the pfizer vaccine eight weeks apart. christmas may be just days away,