It is the burning question on everybody's lips: Just how serious is the Omicron variant of Covid?
Across the country, people are terrified that it will prove more infectious and deadly than previous strains, and – even worse – blunt the vaccines.
That the spectre of another bleak winter of spiralling hospitalisations and deaths is just around the corner.
That we are on the conveyor belt to lockdown and the nightmare of a second Christmas spent away from our loved ones.
By sending out mixed messages about Omicron variant, ministers could wreck the economy. Health Secretary Sajid Javid's (pictured) suggestion we take Covid tests before festive parties risks crippling hospitality through cancellations
After the misery of the last two years, it is inevitable – but natural – that the public feels trepidation.
But while there is much scientists don't know about Omicron, there are reasons for optimism.
Health experts say most patients have experienced either no symptoms or very mild ones and, promisingly, that there is no evidence it renders jabs ineffective.
So while this paper supports the current, light-touch restrictions – temporarily – ministers must have concrete proof Britain faces catastrophe before reapplying the manacles.
For each curb on our liberty has devastating consequences.
Rocketing hospital waiting lists for life-or-death treatment. Excess deaths at home because people haven't sought treatment for killer conditions such as cancer.
Health experts say most patients have experienced either no symptoms or very mild ones with the Omicron variant. Pictured: Map of Omicron cases in the UK
With GPs suspending their usual caseloads to deliver boosters (at £15 of taxpayers' money a time), these will only get worse.
Meanwhile, by sending out mixed messages instead of clear
