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COVID-19 vaccine top-ups reach 13 million in UK

COVID-19 vaccine top-ups reach 13 million in UK

More than 13 million people have now received their third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine in the UK.

The numbers of people receiving their third jab or booster have risen substantially since the government opened it up to those who are between 40 and 49 years old.

On Monday, 217,349 top-ups were recorded, with the programme jumping another million since it hit 12 million jabs on Saturday.

This number rose to 286,582 on Tuesday, meaning that the overall figure now sits at 13,147,333.

Health and Social Care Secretary Sajid Javid said: “There is not a second to waste in getting your booster jab – and it is fantastic to see more than 13 million people have now come forward to top-up their protection this winter.

“I want to thank everyone who has come forward for their jab and the NHS and army of volunteers helping to get jabs in arms.”

New figures released on Monday revealed that those vaccinated with three doses are 90% more protected against symptomatic infection.

Overall, more than 50 million first doses and 46 million second doses have been given across the UK.

Vaccines Minister Maggie Throup said: “It is excellent to see another million boosters clock up in the vital vaccine rollout with 13 million people across the UK boosting their protection ahead of winter.

“To all those eligible – getting the booster could be the most important thing you do this Christmas as we look to spend more valuable time with our loved ones.”

This figure is only expected to rise more and more in the near future, with data from the Office for National Statistics showing nearly all (94%) of those aged 50 to 69 say they would be likely to get their COVID-19 booster if offered, with the figure rising to 98% for those over 70.

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