Two covid deaths linked to Indian variant after being fully vaccinated as Govt looks to scrap social distancing by June

NEW figures have revealed that only two people have died after contracting the Indian Covid variant after being fully vaccinated. 

Public Health England analysis has shown that only three per cent of people who caught the mutant strain already had both jabs - raising hopes that “freedom day” is on track. 

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Of 5,559 people only 177 caught the mutant strain when they had both jabs, with 3,400 having not been given their first dose. 

The data shows that of the 12 people who died after catching the strain in England by May 25, eight were unvaccinated, two had a first dose and two had received both doses. 

Other figures show that the average age of people testing positive is 29, the lowest ever and down from 41 at the start of the year. 

The fast-spreading Indian variant, B.1.617.2 , is causing chaos with the Governments Freedom Day plans. 

Cautious scientists are calling for ministers to delay the final step on their roadmap over fears that the strain will cause another spike in cases. 

The strain is behind almost three quarters of all cases in the UK and has been found in more than 250 of England's 300-plus authorities. 

Ministers are working to scrap social distancing but keep face masks and work from home guidance in place after June 21. 

It comes as the NHS is being urged to speed up the vaccine roll out in an attempt to stop the spread of the new strain.  

Officials have told all staff in charge of administering the jabs that second doses for over 50s should be brought forward, from 12 weeks to eight weeks, but the delay for under 50s would remain at 12 weeks.

But some people in their late 40s and early 50s are now being invited for their second jab after just six weeks.

The government's plan to lift all restrictions by June 21 is reportedly “on a knife edge” due to the rapid spread of the indian variant. 

Sources claim that the government is urging vaccination centres with sufficient supply to accelerate the roll out of the jabs. 

It is understood that the Treasury is prioritising the end of the “one meter” rule and the “rule of  six” inside in an attempt to kickstart the economy after successive lockdowns. 

The current roadmap will see mass gatherings such as festivals, concerts and sporting events to go ahead, but contingency plans are being discussed if the strain gets out of control.