Vaccines and variants are the two big concerns as we hope for an end to the pandemic.
Over in the UK, they've gained added significance with the approach of June 21st - the day on which all remaining restrictions will be lifted.
But, what data do we have about them? And, will the UK change their plans in response?
John Burn-Murdoch, senior data-visualisation journalist with the Financial Times, joined Gavan on the show to discuss.
On The Record with Gavan Reilly
Listen and subscribe to On The Record with Gavan Reilly on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Spotify.
    
Download, listen and subscribe on the Newstalk App.
  
You can also listen to Newstalk live on newstalk.com or on Alexa, by adding the Newstalk skill and asking: 'Alexa, play Newstalk'.