Covid-19: Vaccine could be rolled out from December and student testing
- Published
Here are five things you need to know about the coronavirus pandemic this Tuesday evening. We'll have another update for you on Wednesday morning.
1. Vaccine could be rolled out from December
2. Mass testing to be expanded across England
3. Christmas tests for students
Meanwhile, mass testing of students in England could begin later this month in order to allow them to return home safely for Christmas, according to a letter from the universities minister to university vice chancellors. The letter, seen by the BBC, promises a fast turnaround for tests and "results within an hour", with the aim of stopping students spreading the virus as they return home. A week of testing is proposed between 30 November and 6 December. Here we explore why getting students home for Christmas is a political priority.
4. Exams cancelled in Wales
GCSE, AS and A-levels are to be cancelled in Wales next year, with grades based on classroom assessments, the country's education minister has confirmed. Kirsty Williams said it was impossible to guarantee a level playing field for exams due to the ongoing impact of the Covid pandemic. Assessments will be done under teacher supervision and will begin in the second half of the spring term.
5. People turning to comfort foods
People have been turning to comfort foods during the pandemic, according to the company behind brands including Bisto, Ambrosia and Mr Kipling's cakes. Premier Foods said it had experienced "exceptional" demand through lockdown for its products, which had resulted in strong sales and profits for the past six months. Food critic and broadcaster Jay Rayner said the news was no surprise, adding: "Many of those doing the cooking were kids 20 or so years before, so they are turning to these familiar foods."
And don't forget...
Find more information, advice and guides on our coronavirus page.
Plus, in the latest instalment of our diary from the NHS front line, four nurses describe the strain they're under, dealing with the UK's second wave.
What questions do you have about coronavirus?
In some cases, your question will be published, displaying your name, age and location as you provide it, unless you state otherwise. Your contact details will never be published. Please ensure you have read our terms & conditions and privacy policy.
Use this form to ask your question:
If you are reading this page and can't see the form you will need to visit the mobile version of the BBC website to submit your question or send them via email to YourQuestions@bbc.co.uk. Please include your name, age and location with any question you send in.