LONDON — More than 80 million vaccines have been administered across the United Kingdom through the largest and most successful vaccination campaign in the country's recent history. A total of 80,072,121 doses have been administered in the UK, with 45,697,875 people receiving a first dose (86.8 percent) and 34,374,246 people receiving both doses (65.3 percent), the government said in a press statement. This includes over half (54 percent) of young people aged 18 to 24 in England who have received a first dose — just three weeks after the program was opened to this age group. Commenting on the passing of a major milestone, new Health Secretary Sajid Javid said: "We have now delivered over 80 million vaccine doses across the UK — this a phenomenal achievement. Thank you to everyone who has come forward for their jab. It is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones." According to the government statement, analysis from Public Health England (PHE) and the University of Cambridge suggests that vaccines have so far prevented an estimated 8.5 million infections and 30,000 deaths in England alone. Data from PHE shows COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective against hospitalization from the Delta (B.1.617.2) variant. The analysis suggests the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is 96 percent effective and the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine is 92 percent effective against hospitalization after two doses, the statement added. Meanwhile, Vaccines Minister Nadhim Zahawi said: "This is an astonishing accomplishment — in around seven months the NHS in every corner of the country has administered 80 million vaccines." "The success is down to the incredible dedication of NHS staff, GPs, pharmacists, volunteers, local authorities, civil servants and the armed forces — the country applauds your commitment to saving lives." "As we begin to fully reopen society, it's absolutely crucial everybody gets their first and second jabs so we can return to normality as quickly as possible, the UK vaccines minister added.
