Almost half the population will be able to get the double shot of the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine after fresh supplies of the drug arrive this week.

Government House confirmed today that 15,210 doses of vaccine, along with ancillary equipment, will be brought in on Thursday’s British Airways flight from London.

The arrival of the fourth shipment will bring the number of vaccinations supplied free of charge by the UK to more than 55,000 doses – enough to vaccinate almost half the population.

David Burt, the Premier, has acknowledged Britain’s role in providing Bermuda with protection against the virus.

Mr Burt wrote in a Saturday tweet: “It is vital that we follow the simple precautions in place to limit transmission while we continue to immunise our seniors & the vulnerable.

“We are fortunate to have access to vaccines & are top 10 in the world in testing & vaccinations, but we need to be sensible.”