UK records 1,348 more coronavirus deaths
Public warned not to break rules after receiving vaccine - as they could still spread the virus
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The UK has reported another 1,348 deaths within 28 days of a positive coronavirus test, bringing the official total to 97,329.
A further 33,552 cases of Covid-19 were also recorded, continuing the decrease since the record high of 68,000 on 8 January, according to the Department of Health and Social Care.
Meanwhile, a total of 5,861,351 people have received their first vaccine dose, with an increase of 478,278 reported on Friday – the highest daily figure so far.
The government’s Covid dashboard suggests that case numbers over the last seven days are down more than 20 per cent on the previous week, with patient admissions declining by 6 per cent over the same period.
However, weekly deaths are up by 13 per cent and the NHS remains overwhelmed, with 37,899 patients in hospital and 4,076 patients on ventilators, according to the latest figures.
The latest figures were released as scientists questioned the government’s decision to describe the new coronavirus variant as more deadly, with Public Health England medical director Dr Yvonne Doyle saying the evidence was not “absolutely clear”.
Boris Johnson revealed on Friday that evidence suggested there was a 1.3-fold increased risk of death compared with the old variant of coronavirus, although he sought to reassure the public that the vaccines were just as effective.
The prime minister acknowledged the risk of “another big rebound” if the lockdown is lifted too soon, saying: “We have got to get those rates of infection down. It’s not just a question of rolling out the vaccine.”
Deputy chief medical officer Professor Jonathan Van-Tam also warned people to keep following the rules after they have been vaccinated - as they could still spread the virus.
“Through the vaccination programme, millions of the most vulnerable to Covid-19 are being given significant protection from this virus - a fantastic achievement," he said.
“However, regardless of whether someone has had their vaccination or not, it is vital that everyone follows the national restrictions and public health advice, as protection takes up to 3 weeks to kick in and we don’t yet know the impact of vaccines on transmission.
“The vaccine is rightly something to celebrate - let’s stay patient, stay at home and support the NHS as it continues to roll out the vaccine.”
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments