BRITAIN has snapped up an extra 35million Pfizer vaccines to “future-proof” the country from worrying Covid variants, Sajid Javid announced today.
The Health Secretary suggested the jabs – that are being delivered in the second half of next year – would be saved for booster campaigns.
It comes as the Government launches a fresh PR blitz encouraging 16 to 17-year-olds to get their jabs.
Almost 88 per cent of Brits have had their first dose, and nearly 78 per cent a second dose.
Mr Javid hailed the rollout for saving 95,200 lives and stopping 82,100 hospitalisations among the over-65s alone.
Announcing the new contract with Pfizer he said: “While we continue to build this wall of defence from COVID-19, it’s also vital we do everything we can to protect the country for the future too – whether that’s from the virus as we know it or new variants.
🔵 Read ourcoronavirus live blog for the latest updates
“I am pleased we’ve reached this agreement with Pfizer for more doses as part of our robust preparations to future-proof our vaccine programme, ensuring we have plans in place to keep the nation safe for years to come.
A vaccine-beating variant has always been the biggest threat to the Covid recovery.
BOOST FOR BRITAIN
Ministers have unveiled plans for a booster campaign for the most vulnerable from September.
They are also desperate for more young people to come forward for their jabs before a feared surge when kids go back to school.
A new NHS video released today shows children struck down by Covid pleading with peers to book their slots.
Ella Harwood, 23, bed-bound for seven months, said: “I fear I’ll never be the same again, but I’m very grateful I’m still alive. Please get vaccinated.”
Quincy Dwamena, 31, added: “I thought I would die. Get the vaccine.”
Health sec urges caution as new rules come in for double-vaccinated Brits from August 16
Source: Sound Health and Lasting Wealth
