THE number of Covid-19 vaccines administered in the north has passed the one million mark in an achievement hailed as a "landmark" by health minister Robin Swann.
Of the jabs delivered since the programme started in December when Co Down nurse Joanna Sloan became the first, it is estimated that around 800,000 have been first doses.
Bookings to receive the jab are now open for those aged 40 and over, however it is expected supplies will be "somewhat limited" through April, the head of the north's vaccination programme, Patricia Donnelly, has warned. This means that the over-50s age group will be prioritised in the coming weeks.
Doses are available at regional vaccination centres, GPs, and around 350 community pharmacists.
Ms Donnelly said she expects the number of available doses to increase towards the end of the month or the beginning of May.
"We are determined to maintain the momentum. As ever, progress will be dependent on the availability of vaccine supplies," Ms Donnelly said.
She described a mood of "optimism and relief" at vaccination centres.
Mr Swann said he was "looking forward" to receiving his second dose of the AstraZeneca vaccine.
"Hitting the one million mark is undoubtedly another landmark to welcome, and more than 800,000 people have received a first dose," the minister said.
"However, we still have work to do. I would strongly urge anyone who is eligible for a vaccine to get their jab at the earliest opportunity."
Meanwhile, the north's Chief Medical Officer, Dr Michael McBride urged people eligible to receive the jab to make a booking as soon as possible.
"This will protect you and others and will in time allow all of us to do more of things that are important to us," he said.
"While no medicine or vaccine is without risk, the UK and EU regulators have again confirmed these are safe and effective vaccines and the benefits of vaccination outweigh any potential risk in the vast majority of people. You must complete your second dose to get full protection. There must be no mixing and matching with Covid-19 vaccines.
"Whatever your age, your first and second doses must be with the same vaccine. The only exception will be for the very small number of people who have extreme reactions to the first dose. Having your second dose will give you stronger and longer protection from Covid-19."
Vaccination bookings can be made online at https://covid-19.hscni.net/get-vaccinated, or by calling 0300 200 7813.