Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine gives 76% protection for three months after just one dose, according to an Oxford University study.

Testing also revealed that those vaccinated are much less likely to transmit the disease, which will help stem the continuing spread of the virus.

Britain’s health chief, where the vaccine is available, said Wednesday that the new study suggesting that a single dose provides a high level of protection for 12 weeks supports the government’s strategy of delaying the second shot so more people can quickly be protected by the first dose.

The study has not been peer-reviewed yet and does not address the efficacy of the other vaccine currently in use in the U.K., made by Pfizer. Pfizer recommends that its shots be given 21 days apart and has not endorsed the U.K. government's decision to lengthen the time between doses.