UK Health Authorities "All Citizens Aged 50 and Over Eligible for Vaccination by May"

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hyunwoo Lee] The UK health authorities announced that it is possible to complete the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine for all citizens aged 50 and over by May, the original target. They explained that this is achievable despite the threat of variant viruses.

According to the BBC on the 6th (local time), Clive Dix, chairman of the UK Vaccine Taskforce, appeared on BBC Radio and said, "We have achieved all the goals set by the taskforce so far," and added, "I am optimistic about meeting the May target." Earlier, the UK Prime Minister's Office announced that the goal is to complete the first dose of the vaccine by May for those aged 50 and over and vulnerable groups aged 16 to 65.

Chairman Dix did not rule out the possibility of the emergence of variant viruses that could reduce vaccine effectiveness but emphasized that the UK is at the forefront of the fight against them. He explained, "The UK is on the frontline of variant virus investigations," adding, "This allows scientists to predict variants that have not yet occurred."

Dix stated, "Once the vaccination target is achieved, we plan to distribute vaccines worldwide without stockpiling them," saying, "Because overall surveillance and response are necessary."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.