The coronavirus vaccines will only have a "marginal impact" on hospital numbers in winter, the UK's four chief medical officers have warned.
In a letter written to colleagues, they said the health services are set to face a tough three months ahead. The chief medical officer of England, Professor Chris Whitty; of Scotland, Dr Gregor Smith; of Wales, Dr Frank Atherton; and of Northern Ireland, Dr Michael McBride, all signed the letter.
After coronavirus restrictions were eased for five days over the Christmas period, the chief medical officers warned of the consequences gatherings could have on the number of new Covid-19 infections.