By Coronavirus has now spread to all corners of the planet, infecting millions of people and causing hundreds of thousands of deaths.
Britain is no longer one of the 20 worst affected countries when it comes to excess deaths during the coronavirus pandemic, latest figures show.
The UK remains one of the hardest-hit nations in the world, having suffered more than 127,000 coronavirus-related deaths.
But a hugely successful vaccine rollout, in which more than 10 million people have been given both doses, combined with a strict winter lockdown has turned the tide on the virus.
The UK currently sits at number 21 and peru tops the list of worst affected countries in relation to excess deaths, with 412 per 100,000 people.
The excess death rate is held to be one of the best ways to gauge the impact of the pandemic as it encompasses more than simply the official death toll.
Prime Minister Boris Johnson has insisted he will be led in his considerations by ‘data not dates’ when it comes to lifting lockdown restrictions.
The next step in easing them is expected to be May 17, when most social contact rules outside will be lifted although gatherings of more than 30 will remain illegal.
Indoor hospitality, entertainment venues such as cinemas and soft play areas, the rest of the accommodation sector, and indoor adult group sports and exercise classes will also reopen and limited crowds will be allowed at sporting events. All remaining restrictions on social contact could be lifted from June 21, allowing for larger events to go ahead and nightclubs to reopen.
The Government has said there will be a minimum of five weeks between each set of restrictions easing, to give it time to assess the impact on public health.
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