Coronavirus

Yesterday, we reached the extraordinary milestone of 25 million people across the UK having received their first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine an incredible milestone that moves us one step closer to safely seeing our friends and family again.

I am pleased that rapid testing sites are now up and running across Hertfordshire. These are primarily for key workers and those who can't work from home, who are not showing symptoms - you are encouraged to book a free rapid COVID test every few days.

Today, the PM set out our roadmap for a cautious easing of national restrictions, which will ensure we do not undo the incredible progress we have made so far.

Before proceeding to the next step, the Government will examine the data to assess the impact of the previous step.

I want to say a huge thank-you to everybody working on the Harpenden vaccination roll-out. It has been a brilliant success, one of the best in the country! I have seen first-hand the fantastic job that they have been doing - they deserve all recognition.

A new study shows that the Oxford Vaccine offers protection of 76% up to 12 weeks after a single dose, with further data supporting a 4-12 week dosing interval - this is excellent news.

I am delighted that we have reached our target of offering the COVID vaccine to every eligible care home in England.

A huge well done to everyone who has helped us reach this crucial milestone and all those working so hard on the vaccine rollout throughout the UK.

I've just received the news that Hitchin & Harpenden, in line with the rest of Hertfordshire will be going into Tier 3. I am extremely disappointed in this.

A huge well done and thank you to everyone who has made this possible. To the scientists who worked so hard to develop this vaccine, the clinicians, NHS admin staff, doctors, nurses, everyone who volunteered in the trials and those getting the jab today.

It is extremely good news that the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine for Covid-19 has been formally authorised by the MHRA.

The UK is the first country in the world to have a clinically approved vaccine for supply, with the NHS standing ready to start vaccinating early next week.

Following the Health Secretary’s statement this morning, the Government has confirmed that Hertfordshire will be subject to Tier 2 regional restrictions.