The NHS said from today people aged 32 and 33 will be able to book the vaccine jab in England.

People aged 32 and 33 now eligible for vaccine. This means from 7am this morning (Saturday) more than 1 million people will be getting the first dose. NHS England will have vaccinated more than 50 million people by today with over 40% of the population now having received both jabs.

Members of the public who are aged 33 will receive messages today to book, with 32-years-old getting messages from Monday. Matt Hancock, Health Secretary, has said that this is “an incredible step forward in the biggest and most successful vaccination programme in NHS history” and urged people who receive messages to get vaccinated.

He went on to say “This is truly a testament to the heroic work of our amazing NHS and care staff, volunteers and local authorities across the country who have helped deliver over 50 million jabs at lightning speed across England, keeping us on track to offer a vaccine to everyone by July. The vaccine has already saved thousands of lives and you are far less likely to get symptoms or be admitted to hospital if you get the jab.”

Chief executive of the NHS, Sir Simon Stevens, said “Today, the biggest NHS vaccination programme in history hits another milestone as we pass 50 million life-saving jabs delivered across England.”

National medical director for primary care Dr Nikki Kanan spoke to tell people they can get vaccinated at any time and said “It is fantastic to see so many people come forward so quickly to get their life-saving Covid vaccine – this action means that we are protecting our communities against the virus.

The offer doesn’t go away so if you are eligible and haven’t booked, please do come forward and do so. It is safe, effective and will protect you and those around you.”