The UK's coronavirus alert level is going down to four. It means the risk of the NHS being overwhelmed in the coming weeks has fallen.

The country has been at level five - the highest - since early January.

Why has the alert level gone down?

The level has been changed because the number of people in hospital is falling and "the threat of the NHS and other health services being overwhelmed within 21 days has receded".

The decision was announced in statement by the UK's chief medical officers and NHS England's national medical director.

Level four means coronavirus transmission remains "high," and health services are still "under significant pressure with a high number of patients in hospital".

"Transmission rates, hospital pressures and deaths are still very high," the statement added.

A change in alert system does not automatically mean restrictions can ease, but it helps to inform government decisions on lockdown rules.

Do you feel, some relief, since receiving your first vaccine?

I never thought,I’d be saying this, but I really do.....so I believe, “ Now” that I was meant to have it, felt lousy after having it,the following day.....but nothing ,compared to catching that darn virus....I feel safe.

Mags, I thought this was your thread...sorry, my mistake.