A COVID-19 vaccine from Oxford University and AstraZeneca has been approved for use in the UK, paving the way for mass rollout.

The jab, which has been described as a “game changer”, was given the green light by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

Matt Hancock, Health Secretary, said the approval is “fantastic news” and confirmed the rollout will begin on January 4, including to care homes.

He told Sky News: “I am now, with this approval this morning, highly confident that we can get enough vulnerable people vaccinated by the spring that we can now see the route out of this pandemic.”

Rhyl Journal:

Picture: PA Graphics

He said there would be a difficult few weeks ahead “but we also know that there is a route out of this”.

He added: “The vaccine provides that route out. We have all just got to hold our nerve over the weeks to come.”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson tweeted: “It is truly fantastic news – and a triumph for British science – that the @UniofOxford/@AstraZeneca vaccine has been approved for use.

“We will now move to vaccinate as many people as quickly as possible.”

The news comes amid increasing strain on hospitals in England, where the number of Covid-19 patients is the highest it has been during the pandemic.

Mr Hancock is due to announce any changes to tier areas in a statement to the Commons on Wednesday.

Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford tweeted: “Very pleased that the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine has been given the go-ahead.

“Over 25,000 vaccines have already been administered in Wales and this second vaccine will start to be rolled out here in the New Year.”

Welsh Health Minister Vaughan Gething said the impact of the vaccine would not be seen “for some months”.

“We understand there are high expectations and excitement at the arrival of a second vaccine,” Mr Gething said.

“However, it will take time to reach everyone as this is not an instant fix.

“We won’t receive all the doses at once and we have to be realistic about the scale and pace of delivery when we are vaccinating the entire adult population.

“We will not see the impact of the vaccine for some months and the pressure on the NHS will continue during this winter.

“It is essential that we all continue to play our part and do the right thing to protect each other.”