Responding to the news that the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine developed by Oxford University is up to 90% effective, NHS Providers chief executive Chris Hopson said:

"We welcome the encouraging announcement on the news of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine.

"The development of a third effective vaccine, subject to regulatory approval, means there will be another key weapon in the fight against COVID-19 and the news will be welcomed by our members providing frontline NHS care.

"But, we must fully recognise the logistical challenges of the forthcoming vaccination programme – getting the right doses to the right patients, at the right time, on this scale.

"Although this will mean that those people in the highest priority and risk groups will have access to the vaccine first, we will still have to remain vigilant for some time to come.

"We have to continue to follow the rules and wash our hands regularly, follow social distancing guidelines and wear a face covering when required. And any moves to relax lockdown restrictions must be evidence-based. 

"The combination of vaccines, rapid turnaround at scale testing and therapeutic drugs is offering an increasingly credible mid-term way of combatting coronavirus."