THE prime minister hailed the approval of the first coronavirus vaccine but warned that we must not get "carried away with over-optimism."

The PM said it does not mean "our struggle is over" and parts of the economy still face tough restrictions.

He discussed the "immense logistical challenges" in getting doses of Pfizer to those who need it.

This vaccine needs to be stored at -70 degrees Celsius and comes in packs of close to 1,000 doses which makes it harder to transport in small batches.

People who receive the jab will only be protected after a second dose 21 days after the first.

"It's going to continue to be tough for some sectors - but until the vaccine is deployed our plan relies on all of us making sacrifices to protect the ones we love," Mr Johnson added.

England's deputy chief medical officer Jonathan Van-Tam said: "It's going to take months, not weeks.

"If we relax too soon it will create a tidal wave of infections. I don't think we are going to eradicate coronavirus ever. I think it's going to be with humankind forever."

Prof Van-Tam added that anyone offered the vaccine "must take it". "We need people to take it. This vaccine isn't going to help you if you don't take it," he said.