Peru's Health Minister Hernando Cevallos has announced that a new Vaccinathon will take place on August 6, 7, and 8, so as to immunize people aged 40 and over, as well as those seeking the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.
The health sector's head commented that the above-mentioned vaccination drive did not take place this weekend because there were not enough doses, but the amount slated to arrive on August 1 and 2 will be enough to hold a new Vaccinathon.
"A Vaccinathon will be held next Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, thanks to the doses set to arrive on Sunday (today) and Monday to vaccinate people aged 40 and above, as well as those who have not received the second dose, whatever their age," he said in remarks to TV Peru local channel.
A new batch of one million Sinopharm doses will arrive today, while half a million Pfizer doses will come on Monday, August 2.
The government official recalled that various international studies have shown the effectiveness of the Sinopharm vaccine to prevent hospitalization and mortality from COVID-19.
Cevallos placed special emphasis on the need to vaccinate those who lagged behind and those who need their second dose, because —he noted— a single dose does not ensure complete protection in severe cases of the disease.
The high-ranking official emphasized that the outgoing administration procured the purchase of 10 million Sinopharm doses, which received the approval of the current Government.
Nevertheless, he stressed the need to explore the possibility —with the laboratory— of the supply of doses in August instead of September.
"Assuming (leadership at) the Ministry of Health means to me a great challenge and a commitment to the people, who for years have suffered from lack of access to adequate health care," the Cabinet member wrote on Twitter.
(END) RRC/RMB
Publicado: 1/8/2021