UK PM Warns Of 'Several More Hurdles' For Hopeful Vaccine

Prime Minister Boris Johnson today has announced that the Pfizer vaccine has shown early signs of combatting COVID-19, the virus that has torn through the world.

Mr Johnson said early finings show the jab can prevent 90% of people getting COVID-19, but it was ‘very, very early days.’

"The biggest mistake we could make now would be to slacken our resolve at a critical moment," he added.

England's deputy chief medical officer, Professor Jonathan Van-Tam, said he was "hopeful" the first vaccine could be seen by Christmas if the vaccine meets further requirements.

Speaking alongside Mr Johnson at a Downing Street, Prof Van-Tam said that there was more work to be done before it became available to the public, but signs look hopeful.

"This is a very important scientific breakthrough. I am certain of that," he said.

"I am hopeful because of all that, but not yet certain that we could begin to see some vaccine by Christmas."