Covid infection rates three times lower for people with two vaccine doses, research shows

Coronavirus infection minute rates are 3 times lower for those who have had two vaccine doses, new research indicates.

In people aged 64 or much younger the prevalence of infection the type of who had received two doses of vaccine was 0.35% compared with 1.15% among those who hadn't received any vaccine.

Public Health England data shows having both doses of a Covid-19 vaccine can help to eliminate symptomatic infection by almost 80%. Wales' infection rate has risen to 109.6 cases per 100,000 population based on the seven days between June 26 and July 2 – on 103.2 on Tuesday. Read more about the latest figures from Wales.

The new data, covering the period of June 24 to July 5, also shows that infections in England have raised fourfold from 0.15% to 0.59% since the last React-1 report which covered May 20 to June 7.

The data implies that one in 170 individuals are infected and a recent doubling time of six days.

More than 47,000 volunteers returned PCR tests in England between June 24 and July 5 to look at the amount of Covid-19 within the general population via React-1, among the country's largest studies into Covid-19 infections in England.

There have been substantial increases in all age groups under the age of 75 years, and especially at younger ages, with the highest prevalence for 13 to 17 years and 18 to 24 years. Infections have raised in all regions using the largest increase in London.

Professor Paul Elliott, director from the Reactprogramme from Imperial's School of Public Health, said: "Despite the successful rollout from the vaccination programme we're still seeing rapid development in infections, especially among younger people. Yet it's encouraging to see lower infection prevalence in people who have had both doses of the vaccine. It is therefore essential that as numerous people as possible take up both vaccine doses when offered."

Kelly Beaver, md of public affairs at Ipsos Mori, said: "It looks very likely the prevalence of Covid-19 will continue to increase because the country is unlocked further but you will find encouraging signs that the vaccine programme is working. These bits of information reiterate the significance of getting vaccinated. We are very grateful to any or all the study participants across England for his or her contribution for this study."

England's health secretary Sajid Javid admitted cases will "inevitably" rise as the UK Government eases restrictions in England.

Boris Johnson has previously announced that current legal limits on social interactions and restrictions on large events, performances, and life events is going to be lifted at the next stage from the roadmap – prone to occur on July 19. Face coverings will also not be mandatory indoors although guidance will suggest where people could wear one.

Vaccine minister Nadhim Zahawi added: "It is hugely encouraging to determine the vaccination rollout is having a substantial effect on stopping multiplication of the virus. Almost two-thirds of adults – 64% – have had both doses and so have got the fullest protection on offer.

"I urge everyone to have their third and fourth dose when invited as every jab helps you to curb transmission and serious illness. The small number of individuals who're double-jabbed and experience symptoms should still get tested therefore we all play our part to stop multiplication of the awful virus."

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