The UK has administered more than 15 million vaccinations, official data has revealed.
According to the latest government data up to February 12, a total of 15,091,696 Covid-19 vaccines have been given in the UK so far.
Of the 15 million in total, 14,556,827 were first doses and about 534,869 were second doses – an increase of 4,775 from the figures released the previous day.
It comes after health secretary Matt Hancock said he hoped a combination of vaccines and new treatments would mean Covid-19 could be a “treatable disease” by the end of the year.
But concerns have been raised about the speed at which vaccines are being absorbed in some communities.
Mr. Hancock made a direct appeal to anyone over 70 who still hasn’t had the shot to contact the NHS over the weekend to make an appointment.
“I am determined that we will protect as soon as possible as soon as possible as many of the most vulnerable people in our country as possible from this terrible disease,” he said. “Vaccines are the way out of this pandemic.”
Vaccine uptake has typically been high, with the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) reporting an uptake of 93 percent among people over 75 in England.
The DHSC is now trying to work with community organizations and charities in England to allay the concerns that make some hesitate to get the shot, while at the same time trying to dispel the “myths” circulating on social media.
Sir Simon Stevens, NHS England CEO, commended the staff for their efforts to reach millions of people with vaccines.
On a visit to Coventry University Hospitals and Warwickshire NHS Trust with May Parsons, the nurse who gave Maggie Keenan the world’s first vaccination outside of a clinical trial in December, Sir Simon said: “It’s thanks to fantastic staff like the NHS delivers Europe’s fastest and largest vaccination program against Covid.
“The entire NHS is committed to protecting the most vulnerable, supported by communities coming together with volunteers, local authorities, the armed forces and local businesses.
“After a year of tremendous pandemic pressure, it has been a tremendous and unique team effort that gives us real hope for the future.”
Additional reporting by PA Media.