France's health authority on Friday gave the green light to resume the use of AstraZeneca's COVID-19 vaccine, after a brief suspension. But it recommended that only people aged 55 and above receive the shots.

It said its recommendation was based on the fact that reports of blood clots, which had prompted its suspension in France and other European countries, had only been seen in those aged under 55. 

Prime Minister Jean Castex, himself aged 55, is due to be given the vaccine on Friday afternoon to boost confidence in the jab after the European medicine watchdog ruled it was safe to use.

(With input from AFP)