MEDICAL and political figures have been reacting to the news this morning that the UK has become the first country to approve the Covid-19 vaccine from Pfizer/BioNTech.

Vaccinations could start next week, and who will be at the front of the queue for the jab is expected to be announced later today.

The UK has ordered 40 million doeses of the jab, which is 95 per cent effective.

Prime Minister Boris Johnsons said: "It’s fantastic that the MHRA has formally authorised the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine for Covid-19.

"The vaccine will begin to be made available across the UK from next week. It’s the protection of vaccines that will ultimately allow us to reclaim our lives and get the economy moving again."

Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer said: "Thank you to all those involved in this wonderful news - from the brilliant scientists to the trial volunteers.

"We must now ensure vaccines are rolled out safely but swiftly across the country."

Health Secretary Matt Hancock, added: "This is fantastic news.

“The MHRA, the fiercely independent regulator, has clinically authorised the vaccine for rollout.

“The NHS stands ready to make that happen, so from early next week we will start the programme of vaccinating people against Covid-19 here in this country.”

Mr Hancock's step-grandfather died after contracting Covid-19, and he said this personal loss made him "more determined" to beat the virus.

Chief Medical Officer Professor Chris Whitty welcomed the news but warned people to still be cautious for the next few months.

He said: "The independent regulator authorised the first vaccine for use against COVID-19.

"This is excellent news and a step towards normality. It will take until spring until the vulnerable population who wish to are fully vaccinated. We can't lower our guard yet."

Bradford GP and TV personality Dr Amir Khan said: "Light at the end of a very dark tunnel, finally.

"Please don’t buy into any of the antivax nonsense. This has gone through rigorous safety tests and I will be happy to have mine. The more people that get vaccinated, the quicker normality can return."

Top Bradford doctor Tom Lawton, who has been awarded an MBE for his innovative work fighting Covid-19 at Bradford Royal Infirmary, tweeted: "I have never been more excited at the prospect of a needle!

"Feels like a race against time to receive it given colleagues who are still coming down with COVID-19.

"Also this is going to be a massive undertaking over the next few months - if you know anyone who might be interested send them this link! (hopefully my mum will be joining the team) https://vaccine-jobs.nhsp.uk/index.html."

 

Physics professor and TV presenter Brian Cox said: "Absolutely superb news. Wonderful.

"Thanks to all the researchers and indeed everyone involved in the testing and approval process who’ve moved so quickly and efficiently to get this first vaccine ready for use. Finally, light at the end of the tunnel."

Jibing at Tory minister Michael Gove who said a Scotch egg classes as a 'substantial meal' earlier this week during tension around the tier system, Radio 1 DJ Greg James welcomed the news by tweeting: "SCOTCH EGGS ALL ROUND!"