A STUDY suggests that a single dose of the Oxford vaccine may reduce transmission of coronavirus by two thirds.

The study provides a major boost to the UK’s recommendation that the second jab should be delayed for up to 12 weeks.

Before these results, little was known about how effective the Covid-19 vaccines were at preventing transmission of the disease.

Researchers said that the first dose of the Oxford jab offers protection of 76 per cent up to three months and may reduce transmission by 67 per cent – with efficacy rising to 82.4 per cent after the second dose 12 weeks later.

It also suggests the vaccine eliminates severe illness, as none of those in the study were admitted to hospital with coronavirus.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock said: “This is a hugely encouraging study and further reinforces our confidence that vaccines are capable of reducing transmission and protecting people from this awful disease.

“This report shows the Oxford vaccine works and works well.”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the data from the study was “really encouraging”.

Read also: Why Captain Tom didn't get the vaccine - and who else can't

The study came as Public Health England (PHE) said it was investigating strains of coronavirus in the UK which have developed a mutation that has been worrying scientists including the South African variant.

A PHE spokesman said: “PHE is monitoring the situation closely and all necessary public health interventions are being undertaken, including enhanced contact tracing and control measures.”

The E484K mutation has been shown to reduce the effectiveness of vaccines in preventing people contracting Covid-19.

However, public health experts believe current vaccines will still be effective against strains with the mutation, although at a lower level, and are good at preventing severe disease.

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