V-Day!

Today is V day, the day that mass vaccination against coronavirus started in the UK, the first country to start a programme in the western world. It was quite emotional seeing the first couple of vaccinations take place, and I loved that the second person to have the jab was called William Shakespeare. So nice to see the reaction of nursing staff who clapped 90 year old Margaret Keenan after she had the first jab. Well done to all the scientists, manufacturers and volunteers who took part in trials - so amazing to see what the World can achieve when there is full co-operation, and just under a year from when we first heard of the mystery illness in China. No photo can match the day, so instead you have the annual photo of my xmas tree. 

Day 268 / Day 7 of the 3 Tiers v2 (for my record only)
UK deaths up 616 to 62,033 (revised basis), with 12,282 new cases, 14,807 patients in hospital and 1,271 on ventilation (Govt data - deaths if added are 62,050). Rates in Wales are very high in comparison to other UK nations, Scotland has 100 cases per 100,000, Eng & NI 150 and Wales 297. Rates in London are now high and it could mean a move into Tier 3. 11 areas in Scotland are being moved down a level from Fri. The first vaccinations started in the UK today, the first jabs are being given to the over 80s, healthcare workers and care home residents. The FDA in the US has raised no issues about the safety or efficacy of the Pfizer / BioNTech vaccine.  An independent study of the Oxford / AstraZeneca vaccine in the Lancet reports that it is safe and effective (no doubt more research will be needed to back up the small sample half dose plus full dose better results). UK scientists are planning trials to see if two jabs of different types of vaccine might offer better protection. The CSA said that face masks might be needed late into 2021 as we don't know how good all the vaccines are going to be at preventing transmission of the virus. Scotland has cancelled 2021 Highers exams due to lost teaching time directly and indirectly via self isolation. There has been criticism by devolved leaders in Wales and Scotland of the Royal train tour of the GB to thank essential workers and boost morale. Given cross border travel is allowed for work under rules in force and politicians have loved turning up in hospitals and schools etc, methinks this has much more to do with politics than virus control! Retail industry data shows that demand for xmas lights has tripled with decorations going up earlier than normal.