Latest figures show that more than 30 million people in the UK have received a second dose of a coronavirus vaccine.
As of 15 June, 41,830,546 people across the UK have now been vaccinated with a first dose (79.4 per cent), while 30,204,738 people have had both doses (57.3 per cent).
The government met its target of offering a vaccine to the most vulnerable by 15 April and is on track to offer a first dose to all adults by 19 July, two weeks earlier than planned. NHS England has now extended the offer of a vaccine to everyone over the age of 23.
To ensure people have the strongest possible protection against coronavirus, second doses for all over 40s will be accelerated by reducing the dosing interval from 12 weeks to eight weeks. All over 40s who received a first dose by mid-May will be offered a second dose by 19 July.
Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock said: “Second doses are increasingly vital, so this is an incredibly important milestone. Day after day, our vaccination programme reaches new heights. With over 30 million people across the UK now receiving a second dose, we are giving the fullest possible protection to our loved ones in the face of new variants.
“The strength of the union has never been clearer than in the UK vaccination effort. All four corners of this country have pulled together for one common purpose – to get the jab and fight this virus. I want to pay tribute to everyone right across the country who has answered our call to arms and rolled up their sleeves to get the jab. I encourage everyone over 23 to come forward and get the jab.”
Vaccines Minister Nadhim Zahawi said: “I am delighted that we have reached another poignant milestone in our vaccines programme, with over 30 million people receiving the fullest possible protection from this virus. In the space of six months, the UK has made history after not only deploying a licensed vaccine to the first person in the world, Margaret Keenan, but also to tens of millions of others in the largest vaccination programme in our history. I encourage everyone to come forward for the vaccine, and for the crucial second dose when the offer comes. It could save your life and protect your loved ones.”
