More than 25 million people in the UK have received their first dose of a Covid-19 vaccine.
With almost half of the UK adult population having been vaccinated against the virus and set to develop strong protection from strong illness, saving countless lives and significantly reducing pressure on the NHS.
Recently-released figures show the UK health service has vaccinated a total of 25,273,226 people between December 8, 2020 - when the national vaccination drive began - and March 16, 2021.
A total of 1,759,445 people had received their second dose.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: “This latest milestone is an incredible achievement – representing 25 million reasons to be confident for the future as we cautiously reopen society.
“Thank you once again to the brilliant NHS, scientists, armed forces, volunteers and all those who’ve helped our rollout.”
Speaking at the Downing Street press conference, Health Secretary Matt Hancock added: “Today, exactly 100 days after Margaret Keenan got the first authorised jab in the whole world, we’ve now vaccinated over 25 million people across the United Kingdom.
“It’s been such a national mission. One of the biggest logistical exercises since the war.
“We’re moving in the right direction. Thanks to everybody following the rules that are keeping us safe now and coming forward to get a jab that will keep us safe for the future.
“So, let’s stick with it, follow the rules, and when you get the call, get the jab.”
