The report issued by the sectorial commission investigating the COVID-19 vaccination outside clinical trials is a fundamental input to discover the truth and reinforce transparency, as well as to restore citizens' trust,
Health Minister Oscar Ugarte affirmed.
The Cabinet member expressed deep gratitude to the investigation commission —presided over by former Health Minister Fernando Carbone— and to representatives of professional associations.
"I would like to start by thanking the investigation commission (...). We extend our deep gratitude for the work they carried out and for what —without a doubt— is a fundamental input to discover the truth and reaffirm transparency that should be present in every public act; but I want to add my congratulations for their work," he expressed.
According to the government official, this working group took on a challenge that was met within a decisive period of 10 calendar days.
"I want to highlight their willingness to work and dedication. I believe that —as far as I remember— no institution has installed investigation commissions in such a short time, considering they have not requested an extension of the deadline," he said.
When summarizing the commission's results, Ugarte remarked that, out of the 3,200 vaccines delivered outside the regular research process, 1,200 were sent to the Chinese Embassy —the
Ministry of Health (Minsa) has already requested information on the matter— and 2,000 were assumed by
Cayetano Heredia University (UPCH).
Of the 2,000, 803 remain with Cayetano Heredia University, 58 with
San Marcos University (UNMSM) —which were not used and remain in storage— and 235 have been used to vaccinate a fraction of the 4,000 volunteers who received placebo during the clinical trial process.
In addition, 706 vaccines have been administered to the "trial team," which comprises 369 people; while 198 vaccines were earmarked for the "trial-related staff," that is, for 101 people.
"Those who were vaccinated outside the clinical trial amount to 470," Carbone pointed out at a press conference on Thursday.
(END) JOT/RMB/MVB
Published: 2/26/2021