LONDON — Over 70 million COVID-19 vaccines have now been administered to adults in the United Kingdom, according to the latest figures published on Friday.

With 70,253,625 doses administered in total, 41,088,485 people across the UK have now been vaccinated with a first dose (78 percent), while 29,165,140 people have had both doses (55.4 percent), the UK government said in a press statement.

The government met its target of offering a vaccine to the most vulnerable by 15 April and remains on track to offer a first dose to all adults by the end of July. NHS England has extended the offer of a vaccine to everyone aged 25 and over this week.

Commenting on the vaccination drive in the country, UK Health and Social Care Secretary Matt Hancock said: "Our COVID-19 vaccination program continues at an unparalleled pace and we are almost at the final lap of the race to offer a dose to all adults by the end of July.

He said that 70 million total doses is a phenomenal achievement and it’s truly heartening to think that this provides 70 million shots of protection and hope for a country that has battled so hard to keep COVID-19 under control over the past 18 months.

A recent study by Public Health England (PHE) shows that 2 doses of the COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective against the Delta (B.1.617.2) variant. Vaccine effectiveness against symptomatic disease from the Delta (B.1.617.2) variant is similar after 2 doses compared with the Alpha (B.1.1.7) variant, and we expect to see even higher levels of effectiveness against hospitalisation and death, the government said in the statement.

"To ensure people have the strongest possible protection against COVID-19, appointments for second doses have been brought forward from 12 to 8 weeks for the remaining people in the top 9 priority groups who have yet to receive both doses," the statement read.

Meanwhile, Vaccines Minister Nadhim Zahawi said: "This is another fantastic milestone and cause for celebration. 70 million vaccines administered in total is a testament to the tireless work of our brilliant health and care workforce, who I can’t thank enough for their efforts."

"With over 14,000 lives saved, the benefits of the vaccine are clear — when offered the jab, make sure you book your appointment and secure the fullest possible protection you can," Zahawi added. — Agencies