UK

Half of UK population has had first COVID jab – and more than 12 million fully vaccinated

More than half the UK’s total population has now had a first dose of a coronavirus vaccine.

The number of initial inoculations stands at 33,508,590, while the population is estimated to be 66,796,807.

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A further 119,953 first doses were given on Friday, while 448,139 people received a second one.

It means 12,071,810 people are now fully immunised.

In the latest daily update, another 32 deaths were reported within 28 days of a positive test.

A further 2,061 new infections have been recorded.

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That compares to 40 coronavirus-related deaths and 2,678 cases announced on Friday and 35 deaths and 2,206 cases last Saturday.

The vaccine milestone comes on the day that six people are able to meet outdoors in Wales, while outdoor hospitality will be allowed to reopen from Monday as cases of new COVID-19 infections continue to fall.

Outdoor attractions including swimming pools, funfairs and theme parks, as well as outdoor organised activities and wedding receptions, both for up to 30 people, are also getting the go-ahead.

From 3 May, gyms and leisure centres can reopen, and people can form extended households with one other one.

Wales now has the lowest level of virus infections in the UK and is third in the world in terms of vaccine delivery, while case rates are below 15 per 100,000 people.