69% of the UK population vaccinated one year on from the first Covid-19 dose
A year ago today the UK became the first country in the world to approve Pfizerâs COVID-19 vaccine
The UK is marking one year since it became the first country in the world to approve Pfizerâs COVID-19 vaccine.
The global vaccination programme began with Margaret Keenanâs vaccination in Coventry on December 8 2020.
Since then, just over 51 million first doses of vaccine have been given in the UK, along with more than 46 million second doses and 20 million extra doses.
In the West Midlands, over 4 million people have had at least their first dose.
69% of the UK's population are fully vaccinated.
However, around one in 10 eligible people in the UK â 6.4 million â remain unvaccinated, including nearly one in four young adults.
Yet the 'booster programme' has seen a success with almost 20 million COVID-19 booster vaccines and third doses given out in the UK.
Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid also said it is 'crucial that everybody who is eligible gets their booster jab' just in time for Christmas.
He added:
"While our brilliant scientists learn more about the new Omicron variant, we need to do everything we can to strengthen our defences and vaccines are the best way to do that.
"This is a national mission and we all have a role to play â so roll up your sleeves and get protected as soon as you can."
What are the new restrictions, and where do you have to wear face coverings in England?
Mask wearing in shops
From Tuesday, face coverings will be mandatory in shops in England. Regardless of vaccination status, those who do not wear a mask in retail establishments - other than those who are exempt for medical purposes - will be asked to leave.
Mask wearing on public transport
While travel across the country remains permitted, face masks will also be made compulsory on public transport in England. This includes buses, trams, trains and taxis. People with medical and respiratory exemptions will not be included in these restrictions.
Students and teachers advised to wear masks
Face coverings are also "strongly advised" to be worn for students in year 7 and above in communal areas unless they are exempt. According to the Department of Education, this is to make sure they can "continue to benefit from classroom teaching".
University students encouraged to wear masks
Department for Education guidance also states that face coverings should be worn by university students and staff in communal spaces and corridors. They have also encouraged that staff and students to do lateral flow tests twice weekly.
Mask wearing in pubs as well?
As of yet, it isn't mandatory to wear a face-covering in pubs and restaurants in England. It comes as Health Minister Edward Argar explained why wearing a mask in a pub or restaurant is difficult. He said people standing at the bar are often there for a short time and will "sip a drink on their way back to a table, where they'll be seated".